Document k6JJaexEpNZBBb5Q8YkGDapxb

B07389 Inter Office Ford Parti and Sarvtca Division June 1, 1991 Mr. M. H, Hamberg Subject: EPA/0SHA Asbestos Exposure Program As requested, Ve bare reviewed the attached slide-tape script and (2) bro chures regarding asbestoB poisoning and make the following comments: , There is an inconsistency between the two brochures in the mention of brake vacuums. In the slide-tape script, psges 10, 11 and 12 refer to using a industrial or shop vacuum. Further emphasis for a shop vacuum designed for asbestos usage or a efficient* filtering and dis posal system, like that mentioned in the larger brochure would be appropriate. - . One popular brake cleaning method the program does not address is the coffee can. method. This method is simply using a coffee can filled with parts cleaner solvent from the ports washer and brushing off the brake assembly holding the can under it. Because technicians are paid by the job (flat rate), cleaning a brake with a vacuum is sot always dons, even if the garage has the equipment; it becomes awkward, time consuming and costly. Brake washers are fine, but they are a fairly new product and there are few in use in the field. The coffee can method Is used by technicians who are aware of asbestos poisoning but ' don't have the sophisticated equipment or taka the time to use it, This paper should address this method and its' safety impact is areas suoh as solvent disposal (Do you pour down the drain or put it be.ok in tha parts washer?). , Consider suggesting to Mr. Gutmonda that the brochure and slide-tape refer to people who work on cars as technicians, rather than mechanics. Thi? <3 s. practice adopted by Ford and G.M. which technicians prefer. In the area of program effectiveness, the brochure suggests (pg. 74) displaying a poster to remind people of the dangers of asbestos poison ing. Because it is sot readily available, the EFA might consider making a poster available ami including it with the distribution of brochures, A poster hung is the garage area might prove to be the most effective reminder of the dangers of asbestos poisoning. There are currently (4) four class action suits pending against Ford Motor Company for asbestos poisoning by former Ford dealer technicians I suggest you review this material aid your prepared response to EPA/OSICA with Wanda Jonas (*42476) to assure it does not adversely effect those lawsuits. D. E. Schvenk SCF-FORD-3114 PRODUCED BY FORD