Asbestos Exposure in Automobiles

Asbestos was commonly used in the automotive industry from the early 1900s to the 1980s. It was incorporated into various vehicle components due to its durability, insulation properties, heat resistance, and fireproofing capabilities. Many automotive parts that faced high friction or intense heat, such as those in the engine, contained asbestos to enhance their longevity and fire resistance.

However, over time, asbestos-containing car parts could deteriorate due to wear and tear, necessitating replacement or servicing. This maintenance work could disturb asbestos fibers, putting automobile mechanics, technicians, and other automotive workers at risk of asbestos exposure. This risk extended to vehicle enthusiasts, especially those handling car products manufactured before 1980.

Common Asbestos Products in Automobiles

Asbestos was present in various automotive components, including air hoses, body construction materials, brakes, clutch components, engine parts, gaskets, heat seals, hood liners, insulation, mufflers, and valve rings. While asbestos use in automotive parts has significantly declined in the United States, older parts may still contain asbestos, and the process of servicing, removing, or restoring them can release airborne asbestos fibers, posing health risks to current automotive workers.

Notable Automotive Manufacturers That Used Asbestos

Several well-known automotive companies, including Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler, used asbestos components in their vehicles. Some of these companies manufactured asbestos parts in-house, while others may have obtained them from secondary asbestos companies. For instance, Borg-Warner Automotive, Inc., which operated from 1928 to the present, used asbestos in products like clutch linings and brake linings. Advance Auto Parts, founded in 1932, carried asbestos-containing automotive equipment, including brake linings and brake pads. Allied Signal, Inc. (now Honeywell), founded in 1920, also used asbestos in its automotive products.

Who Is at Risk of Exposure From Automobiles

Individuals who worked with automobiles built before 1980 face potential asbestos exposure. This exposure can occur during various tasks, such as manufacturing, cutting and trimming asbestos insulation to fit car bodies, replacing old parts, repairing components subjected to wear and tear, and disposing of old equipment. Brake and brake linings, in particular, contained high levels of asbestos, making workers involved in servicing these parts susceptible to inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers. Secondary asbestos exposure to family members could also occur when workers brought asbestos fibers home on their clothing.

Preventing Asbestos Exposure

To mitigate asbestos exposure risks, various U.S. agencies and state governments have established regulations. These regulations provide guidelines for handling asbestos in automotive shops, with recommendations based on the frequency of exposure and the type of work. Recommendations include using negative-pressure enclosures, HEPA vacuum systems, wet cleaning methods, and proper cleaning techniques. Home mechanics and car enthusiasts should also take precautions when working with older cars or suspected asbestos-containing parts to minimize exposure.

Asbestos exposure in the automotive industry can lead to severe health consequences, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and asbestos lung cancer. Understanding the risks and taking appropriate precautions is crucial to prevent asbestos-related diseases.