A Mortality Study Of Workers Manufacturing Friction Materials: 1941-86 - (1989)

The Legal Implications of Asbestos Exposure: Insights from a Mortality Study of Workers Manufacturing Friction Materials (1941-1986)

Abstract
The study, "A Mortality Study of Workers Manufacturing Friction Materials: 1941-86," by Newhouse and Sullivan, published in the British Journal of Industrial Medicine in 1989, investigates the mortality rates of 13,450 workers employed at a factory producing friction materials over a 45-year period. The research primarily focused on the health effects of exposure to chrysotile asbestos, with limited exposure to crocidolite asbestos during two periods before 1944. The study identified 13 deaths from mesothelioma, with 11 cases linked to crocidolite exposure. It concluded that with stringent environmental controls, chrysotile asbestos could be used without causing excess mortality. However, the findings also highlighted the severe risks associated with crocidolite asbestos exposure.

Legal Relevance
This study provides critical evidence for asbestos-related legal claims, particularly for individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases. The findings establish a clear link between crocidolite asbestos exposure and mesothelioma, supporting claims of employer negligence in failing to protect workers from hazardous materials. The study also highlights the importance of occupational history in determining exposure levels, which can be used to strengthen legal arguments.

Defense claims often argue that chrysotile asbestos is less harmful than other types, but this study underscores the necessity of strict environmental controls to mitigate risks. Furthermore, the absence of excess mortality from lung cancer or other tumors in this study can be used to counter claims that other factors, such as smoking, are solely responsible for the disease.

Occupation Groups at Risk
The study is particularly relevant to individuals employed in the following occupations:

• Brake and Clutch Manufacturing Workers: These workers were directly exposed to asbestos fibers during the production of friction materials.
• Grinding and Fiber Preparation Workers: Exposure levels were highest in these areas, especially before 1950 when hygienic controls were minimal.
• Factory Maintenance Workers: Workers performing maintenance in asbestos-laden environments faced intermittent but significant exposure.
• Industrial Machine Operators: Operators of machinery used in asbestos processing were at risk due to airborne fibers.

These groups are at high risk due to prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers, particularly crocidolite, which is strongly linked to mesothelioma.

Current Medical Understanding
The study aligns with current medical knowledge that crocidolite asbestos is highly carcinogenic and poses a significant risk of mesothelioma. However, its conclusion that chrysotile asbestos can be used safely under controlled conditions is now considered outdated. Modern research indicates that all forms of asbestos, including chrysotile, are hazardous and should be avoided to prevent asbestos-related diseases.

Citation
Newhouse, M. L., & Sullivan, K. R. (1989). A mortality study of workers manufacturing friction materials: 1941-86. British Journal of Industrial Medicine, 46(3), 176-179. https://doi.org/10.1136/oem.46.3.176

National Library of Medicine Link
For further details, you can access the study on the National Library of Medicine’s website: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2539183/.

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