Document VnR3GYQkgv1Y7epzQKDym2dg

FILE NAME: Raybestos-Manhattan (RBM) DATE: 1976 Nov 24 DOC#: RBM033 DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION: Confidential Memo Stating Long Term Exposure is Not Necessary Related Diseases Corporate Trumbull CONFIDENTIAL TO: Mr. G. Ferrucci November 24, 1976 After Dr. Levinsohn has completed his indoctrination and rounds of Raybestos-Manhattan, other company plants and various institutions, vo will prepare preliminary recommendations which will be discussed and reviewed at a meeting of company Medical Directors and other interested persons to be scheduled for next spring. In the mean time, however, observations will.be made which will inevitably result in recommendations, some of which should receive attention promptly, for this reason I am .enclosing a copy of a report prepared for me by Lewinsohn and Weaver following their visits to North Charleston and Mershville. The report is for your infor mation and will not be sent to anyone else. Particular attention should be paid to the following points: 1. Excessive exposure to perchlorethylene (page 5). 2. Apparent lack of awareness on the part of Dr. Greene of recently diagnosed cases of asbsstosis at Marshville. According to my records, six cases ware recorded in 19(75 and four cases in 1974. V.Tas Dr. Greene aware of these? 3. Matters relating to housekeeping, protective clothing, change areas and washing and shower facilities should be given attention. I " It is now accepted that long term exposure is not necessary' for the production of asbestos related diseases. Exposure to excessive levels for a few months or even a few weeks can result in the appearance of disease many years later. Therefore, it is important, to ensure that workers are protected even though certain operations may be shutdown in a few months time.. It is also important to prevent workers from taking asbestos fiber into their homes. Once fiber--gets into the home and becomes embedded in carpeting, upholstery, etc. it is virtually impossible to get rid of it. Borne vacuum cleaners will not get rid of the fiber but will simply recirculate it. Exposure then becomes a 24 hour a day 7 day a week matter, with young children being particularly at risk. It is for these reasons that particular emphasis is placed on protective clothing, change rooms, etc. Please let me know if you have any questions. John H. Marsh /ns