Document x5odbLZnbyjyKavDrd4b65RZ6

Non-Asbestos Brake Linings The use of non-asbestos friction materials is increasing. Available information suggests that none of these substitute materials is as dangerous as asbestos. Unless a mechanic is certain before brake work starts that a particular vehicle's brakes are not lined with asbestos, it should be assumed for the sake of caution that there is asbestos in the brake dust. In addition, friction materials often contain adhesives, toxic metals, and other hazardous chemicals which can harm the body (2). Thus, even for non-asbestos friction products, an enclosure system can control exposures to materials which may be harmful. What to Look for in Enclosure Equipment for Brake Cleaning Recommended features to look for in selecting enclosure equipment include: 1. Features which prevent hand contact with asbestos, including rubber (or other non-permeable) gloves to cover both hands. Look for attached gloves with no spaces for leakage. If attached gloves are not standard with the equipment, they should be selected as an option. 2. Enclosures large enough to fit around the biggest size brake drums likely to be encountered to prevent exposure during drum removal. 3. Reports of air sampling with analysis by transmission electron microscopy that show no release of asbestos fibers when using this equipment during brake maintenance. This helps ensure against design defects. 4. A sturdy seal behind the backing plate to prevent leakage during blow out 5. A pressure gauge or manometer indicating when vacuum filter change or cleaning of renewable filter is needed. This helps ensure effective suction during use. 6. Safety of filter change or renewable filter cleaning. Ideally, future models of these devices will have a feature that prevents opening the filter housing while the vacuum motor is switched off. Enclosure system manufacturer information is discussed in references 32-35. 8