Document DG7gV9MxLQkN7GmKwZk5okkNO

Page 1 AMERICAN BRAKE SHOE COMPANY AMERICAN BRAKE BLOK WINCHESTER, VIRGINIA EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH IN MANUFACTURE OF BRAKE LININGS On June 25 and 26, 1959, an environmental health study was conducted to evaluate the hazards associated with the manufacture of brake linings. An investigation was made of airborne lead, airborne asbestos, 'methyl ethyl ketone and noise exposures. The following general conclusions summarize the exposure in the order of importance. GENERAL CONCLUSIONS 1. Airborne lead during dry compounding existed in sufficient quantities to be considered a health hazard. The concentration was far above the recognized safe limit of 0.2 milligrams per cubic meter. 2. A borderline health hazard from airborne asbestos exists in the dry compounding area. Improved capture velocities on the dust control equipment will reduce the exposure. 3. The exposure to methyl ethyl ketone is not significant except at the applicator machine in the PC Department. A. The Ventilation Study indicates improvement is required in control velocities in such areas as Strip Finishing, Compounding and Brake Blok. 5. The Hearing Conservation Study indicates a moderate exposure exists in the Strip Finishing and Brake Blok areas. The interest of management in the health of the workers is clearly, demonstrated by the provision and maintenance of an excellent dust control program. STW/oq LIBERTY MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY SPNY 000370