Occupational Exposure - Asbestos Exposure and Mechanics: Risks and Prevention
Asbestos exposure is a lurking danger, often unseen and undiscussed, affecting workers across various industries. This problem is particularly significant for mechanics and automotive professionals. They spend their days working with parts that may contain this dangerous substance. Understanding and addressing this issue is crucial for the safety and health of our diligent mechanics, who keep our vehicles running smoothly. Let’s dive a little deeper.
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If you believe that you were exposed to asbestos, even as a child, speak to a healthcare provider about tests and screening to help diagnose lung-scarring and screen for asbestos-related diseases.
Understanding asbestos and its uses in automotive parts
Let’s start at the very beginning – what is asbestos? Asbestos refers to six naturally occurring minerals composed of thin, durable, and heat-resistant fibrous crystals.
Asbestos fibers are soft and flexible, resistant to heat, electricity, and corrosion; this explains why it was widely used across different industries, including the automotive industry.
Yet, the critical question we need to ask is, why are we discussing asbestos in an automotive context? Tragically, occupational exposure to asbestos has been widespread, and the automotive industry has been far from immune to its impact. It’s a sad reality that many common automotive parts were historically manufactured with asbestos due to their heat-resistant properties. These parts include:
Brake pads and linings
Clutch facings
Gaskets
Heat seals
Valve rings
Hoodliners
Brakes and clutches are subject to extreme heat as part of their regular operation, making asbestos an attractive choice as a component due to its capacity to resist heat-induced wear and tear.
“Some asbestos fibers may bypass…your body’s natural defenses…and lodge deep within your lungs. Those fibers can remain in place for a very long time and may never be removed.”Source: American Lung Association |
Health risks associated with asbestos exposure
With numerous uses of asbestos in auto parts, the potential health risks of asbestos exposure cannot be diminished. Lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis are the three predominant health issues connected to asbestos exposure.
Lung cancer: Notably, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention found that brake mechanics are exposed to 2.26 fibers/cc, 45 times the commendable limit
Mesothelioma: This rare form of cancer affects the lining of the lungs and chest wall. It is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure
Asbestosis: A chronic respiratory disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, leading to scarring of lung tissue and shortness of breath
| Even lifelong smokers can collect compensation for asbestos damage. | |
 | Many of our clients believed they weren’t eligible to file an asbestos lawsuit because they were cigarette and cigar smokers. This isn’t true under the laws of many states. Our database contains the medical evidence needed to show that smokers who are exposed to asbestos are far more likely to develop cancer than smokers who weren’t exposed to asbestos. Cigarettes and asbestos are far more dangerous than cigarettes or asbestos. |
| Even lifelong smokers can collect compensation for asbestos damage. |
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| Many of our clients believed they weren’t eligible to file an asbestos lawsuit because hey were cigarette and cigar smokers. This isn’t true under the laws of many states. Our database contains the medical evidence needed to show that smokers who are exposed to asbestos are far more likely to develop cancer than smokers who weren’t exposed to asbestos. Cigarettes and asbestos are far more dangerous than cigarettes or asbestos. |
Lung cancer is a well-documented health issue connected to asbestos exposure.
Studies conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have revealed alarming statistics in certain occupational settings. For instance, brake mechanics, who frequently handle asbestos-containing brake pads and linings, have been found to be exposed to significantly high levels of asbestos fibers.
The health risks of asbestos exposure to mechanics can include:
| Mesothelioma: cancer of the mesothelium, the thin layer of tissue surrounding the body’s organs. This cancer is only known to be caused by asbestos exposure. | Lung cancer |
| Laryngeal cancer: cancer of the larynx (section of the throat called the voicebox) | Ovarian cancer |
| Stomach cancer | Colon cancer |
| Pharyngeal cancer | Asbestosis: a chronic lung disease associated with asbestos exposure |
| Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) | Atelectasis |
| Pleural effusion (collection of fluid around the lungs) | Pericardial effusion (collection of fluid around the heart) |
Occupational exposure to asbestos for mechanics
Mechanics and automotive technicians face an under-acknowledged risk – exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring, hazardous material. Due to the very nature of their profession, they come into frequent contact with asbestos-containing parts.
In the fast-paced world of a mechanic’s daily tasks, there’s frequent handling or grinding of asbestos-laden parts, primarily in older vehicle models
When these components – most commonly found in brakes or clutches – are disturbed during repairs or replacements, asbestos fibers can be released into the air
The threat amplifies when these airborne fibers are inhaled, leading to severe health complications, such as mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Unfortunately, many mechanics may not be aware of the risks of asbestos exposure, even exposure that took place many decades ago.
In one study, it was found that of brake mechanics tested, most were oblivious to the asbestos exposure risks related to their occupation.
“Generally, those who develop asbestos-related diseases show no signs of illness for a long time after exposure.”Source: National Cancer Institute (NIH)1 |
As we’ve already discussed, asbestos exposure’s repercussions are gravely serious and often irreversible. So, the need of the hour is heightened awareness and implementation of safety protocols to safeguard those at risk.
Safety precautions: Utilizing appropriate safety equipment (like respirators) and following strict work safety guidelines can significantly reduce the exposure risk
Awareness & training: Regular asbestos awareness and safety training can ensure mechanics understand the risk and take the necessary precautions
Regulations: Enhanced governmental regulations to minimize the use of asbestos in auto parts could contribute to reducing the exposure risk
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Preventive measures to reduce asbestos exposure risk
Fortunately, the risk of asbestos exposure can be minimized with the implementation of practical measures and protective mechanisms. For mechanics and garage owners, these steps include:
Using safer, asbestos-free alternatives for automotive parts whenever possible
Implementing proper handling and disposal procedures for asbestos-containing materials. OSHA advises disposing of such materials in sealed, impermeable bags or other closed, impermeable containers
Using personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respiratory masks and gloves. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a respirator that is at least as protective as an N-95 NIOSH-certified disposable respirator is recommended
Ensuring proper ventilation in the workspace to reduce the concentration of airborne asbestos fibers
“The overall evidence suggests there is no safe level of asbestos exposure.”Source: National Cancer Institute (NIH)2 |
Regulations and guidelines for asbestos management in the automotive industry
The collective responsibility of employers and employees in ensuring adherence to these regulations cannot be overstated. These regulations offer workers protection from asbestos exposure as well as precise instructions on how to handle asbestos-containing materials safely.
Asbestos Identification: As per the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the first step is to correctly identify potential sources of asbestos, such as brake linings, clutches, and gaskets
Proper handling: Next, the use of appropriate safety equipment is mandated while handling these components. This includes respirators, eye protection, and disposable overalls
Safe disposal: Finally, safe disposal of asbestos-containing materials is essential. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has strict rules about sealing such materials in leak-tight containers before disposal
These regulations not only guard workers against asbestos exposure, but also give exact orders about the secure handling of asbestos-containing materials.
For instance, the EPA fined many businesses in 2020 for failing to follow asbestos laws, with some of the fines topping $250,000; that’s why compliance with these regulations isn’t just a matter of avoiding fines, it’s about safeguarding the health and well-being of workers. By fostering a culture of compliance, we can collectively minimize the risk of asbestos exposure and ensure a safer working environment.
People who worked in these industries prior the mid-1980s have a higher risk of developing asbestos-related diseases:
| Construction | Factories | Foundries | Refineries | Shipyards | Mining / Milling |
| Demolition | Insulation | Steelworkers | Pipe Fitting | Shipbuilding | Mechanics |
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| Roofing | Textiles | Iron workers | Boilers | Firefighting | Brake Repair |
| Flooring | Cement | Electricians | Gasket Repair | Railroad | HVAC |
Unfortunately so do their families.
Raising awareness and promoting a safe work environment
We cannot undervalue the impact of awareness. By raising awareness, we can cultivate an informed community, ultimately fostering a safer work environment.
The distribution of accurate information, resources, and best practices has profound implications. It’s a vital cog in the machinery combating the issue of asbestos exposure. Regular training and educational sessions can amplify understanding of the risks, promoting adherence to safety procedures and regulations.
According to a survey conducted by A-SAFE, 58% of U.S. workers are not aware of the major risks related to their jobs. In light of this, increased training efforts can significantly improve worker safety
Resources such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offer comprehensive guidelines and training resources on dealing with asbestos, making it easier for mechanics to access crucial information
Safety in the workplace isn’t one and only the employer’s responsibility – it’s a joint effort. Each employee has a part to play in fostering a secure and healthy workplace. Only through our united efforts can we make a substantial difference.
Over $30 Billion is still available (No lawsuit. No fees unless you receive money. No risk.) Stake your claim.  |
Final thoughts on asbestos exposure and mechanics
The specter of asbestos exposure in the automotive industry is a serious concern, with severe health implications for our mechanics and automotive professionals. From lung cancer to mesothelioma and asbestosis, the risks are considerable but, importantly, preventable.
We can significantly lower these risks by being aware of the dangers of asbestos exposure, following the law, and putting protective and preventative measures in place. With shared responsibility and a commitment to safety, we can protect our automotive professionals and foster a healthier, safer industry for all.
In the end, knowledge truly is power. And with that power, we can change the automobile industry so that every mechanic may operate without fear of asbestos exposure in a safe environment.
AsbestosClaims.Law
At AsbestosClaims.Law, our mission to secure compensation for asbestos victims is more than professional; it’s personal.
Our founder, Justinian C. Lane, understands the devastating impacts of asbestos firsthand.
Both his grandparents and father, all asbestos workers, passed away from asbestos-induced cancers without realizing their eligibility for asbestos lawsuits or other forms of compensation.
We aim to prevent such tragic oversights by informing and guiding victims and their families through their legal options.
If you or your loved ones have suffered as a result of asbestos exposure, you could be eligible for considerable compensation. These funds could provide for medical treatments, asbestos removal services, and safeguard your health.
In addition, asbestos trusts offer compensation without the need for a lawsuit, providing a quicker, simpler path to justice.
Reach out to us at [email protected] or (206) 455-9190 for assistance with your claim. We offer compassionate listening, clear explanations, and we don’t charge a dime unless we win your case.
Beyond legal claims, we also advise on veterans’ disability, social security, and employment protection like workers’ compensation, FELA, and The Jones Act for maritime workers.
There’s no risk or cost to connect with our experienced team about your rights. Our commitment to your well-being means no fees unless you receive compensation.
| For further queries or concerns about asbestos, explore our website and YouTube page, featuring infographics, videos, and answers to common questions on asbestos-related topics. |
We’ve also introduced W.A.R.D., the Worldwide Asbestos Research Database. It’s the most comprehensive resource for asbestos-related information.
W.A.R.D. assists in pinpointing potential exposure scenarios, asbestos-containing products, and can indicate the types and potential amounts of compensation you may be entitled to receive.
Don’t delay — get in touch with us today!
1 National Cancer Institute (NIH), Asbestos Fact Sheet.
2 National Cancer Institute (NIH), Asbestos Fact Sheet.