852 Asbestos Safety

Control Methods

The proper use of engineering controls and work practices by properly trained employees working on automotive brakes and clutches will reduce their asbestos exposure below the PEL.

Respiratory protection is not required during brake and clutch jobs where the control methods are used and the PEL is not exceeded.

OSHA requires one of the following work methods (or an equivalent method) if a shop works on more than five pairs of brakes or five clutches per week:

• Negative-Pressure Enclosure/HEPA Vacuum System Method: This type of enclosure and vacuum system has a special box with clear plastic walls or windows, which fits tightly around a brake or clutch assembly to prevent asbestos exposure.
• Low Pressure/Wet Cleaning Method: This specially designed low-pressure spray equipment wets down the brake assembly and catches the runoff in a special basin to prevent airborne brake dust from spreading in the work area.
• Wet Wipe Method: If a shop works on no more than five pairs of brakes or five clutches per week, OSHA allows this method instead. It involves using a spray bottle or other device capable of delivering a fine mist of water, or amended water (water with a detergent), at low pressure to wet all brake and clutch parts. The brakes can then be wiped clean with a cloth. The use of dry brushing during wet method operations is prohibited.

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