Brakes and Traction Control: Service Precautions

WARNING: Brakes contain asbestos fibers. Avoid breathing dust. Breathing asbestos dust may cause asbestosis and cancer.

Breathing asbestos dust is hazardous to your health.

Dust and dirt present on wheel brake and clutch assemblies may contain asbestos fibers that are hazardous to health when made airborne by cleaning with compressed air or by dry brushing.

Wheel brake assemblies and clutch facings should be cleaned using a vacuum cleaner recommended for use with asbestos fibers such as Rotunda Asbestos Brake Drum System With Vacuum 091-00025. Dust and dirt from vacuum should be disposed of in a manner that prevents dust exposure such as sealed bags. The bag must be labeled as per OSHA instructions and the trash hauler notified as to the bag's contents.

If a vacuum suitable for asbestos is not available, cleaning should be done wet. If dust generation is still possible, technicians should wear government-approved toxic dust purifying respirators.

Grinding or sanding on brake linings, pads, rotors, drums or clutch facings should use properly exhaust-ventilated equipment.

OSHA requires areas where asbestos dust generation is possible to be isolated and posted with warning signs. Only technicians concerned with performing brake or clutch service should be present in the area.

WARNING: Brake fluid contains polyglycol ethers and polyglycols. Avoid contact with eyes. Wash hands thoroughly after handling. If brake fluid contacts eyes, flush eyes with running water for 15 minutes. Get medical attention if irritation persists. If taken internally, drink water and induce vomiting. Get medical attention immediately.

CAUTION: Do not spill brake fluid onto painted surfaces. If spilled, wipe up immediately.