OSHA: Brake and Clutch Asbestos Repair Work using Wet method

For shops that perform infrequent brake work and clutch repair work, OSHA allows the use of a wet method as a "preferred" method to reduce exposure to asbestos.

Therefore, in facilities in which five (5) or fewer brake "jobs" (five brake "jobs" are equivalent to five vehicles) or 5 clutches, are inspected, disassembled, reassembled and/or repaired per week, the mechanic/technician may control potential asbestos exposure through the use of the wet method.

This involves use of a spray bottle, hose nozzle, or any implement capable of delivering a fine mist of water or amended water at low pressure to wet down the drum or clutch housing before removing it and to control asbestos fiber release during subsequent activities.

However, any wastewater generated must be captured and properly disposed of without allowing it to dry on any surfaces. OSHA anticipates that using a spray bottle will adequately control dust without generating a large volume of wastewater.

The wet method requires the following steps:

1. Brake and clutch parts must be wetted with water or amended water before taking any other action.

2. Wipe the brake and clutch parts clean with a cloth.

3. Place contaminated cloth into an impermeable, properly labeled container, and then dispose of it as asbestos waste. Alternatively, the cloth can be laundered to prevent the release of asbestos fibers in excess of 0.1 fiber per cubic centimeter of air, expressed as an 8-hour time-weighted average.

4. Any spilled water or amended water or asbestos-containing waste material must be cleaned immediately with a cloth or HEPA-filtered vacuum and not allowed to dry.

The simplicity of the wet control does not eliminate the need for correct work practices. For example, holding the spray nozzle too close to the brake surface may cause asbestos fibers to become airborne. Brake components should be sprayed to saturate the parts as they are removed from the assembly.

Courtesy of OSHA