The Environmental Protection Agency has released a brochure targeting professional and do-it-yourself auto mechanics to inform them of proper precautions to take when handling automotive parts that may contain asbestos, such as clutches and brake linings.

“The Current Best Practices for Preventing Asbestos Exposure Among Brake and Clutch Repair Workers” discusses strategies to employ to prevent asbestos dust from becoming airborne during automotive repairs.

The Problem

When products containing this material are disturbed, thin, lightweight asbestos fibers can be released into the air. Asbestos dust and fibers can cause serious health problems, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis when inhaled into the lungs.

It is impossible to tell which brake and clutch components contain asbestos by sight, so the EPA recommends that those who work with brakes and clutches treat all potentially asbestos-containing products as though they do contain asbestos.

Recommendations

The EPA lists the following guidelines in the brochure:

For do-it-yourself mechanics and those who work in shops that perform fewer than five brake or clutch jobs each week:

· DON’T use compressed air to clean products or surfaces that could have asbestos dust near them as it will blow the dust into the air.

· DO clean brakes and clutches with wet rags if they must be cleaned.

· DON’T use ordinary wet/dry vacuums to clean dust without high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. These vacuums can throw dust into the air and onto the operator’s clothes.

· DO use ready-to-install, pre-ground parts.

· DON’T take work clothes into the home to avoid exposing family members to the harmful fibers.

· DO keep bystanders away from the work areas.

There are separate practices outlined for those who work in shops where more than five brake or clutch jobs are performed per week.

The brochure can be viewed in its entirety here (PDF) at the EPA’s website.

Harmed by asbestos? If you or a loved one has developed an asbestos-related illness, please contact us today for a free consultation with an established asbestos exposure attorney who can answer your questions and help make sure that you are properly compensated for your losses.