September 7th, 2006

The Environmental Protection Agency has produced guidelines that aim to help auto mechanics avoid the dangers of exposure to asbestos from brake and clutch dust, which can contain fibers of the deadly substance, known to cause a range of health problems including asbestos related cancer.

A draft brochure has been put together, and is called: Current Best Practices for Preventing Asbestos Exposure among Brake and Clutch Repair Workers. The guidelines list ways in which mechanics can help to avoid asbestos exposure from these components, as well as providing information on regulations set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) relating to auto mechanics.

There is already a similar set of guidelines in circulation for auto mechanics, which is entitled Guidance for Preventing Asbestos Disease Among Auto Mechanics – also known as the Gold Book.

The new guidelines provide updated information for mechanics, both employed and home mechanics. The EPA is also encouraging input on the new guideline draft from the public.