When Was Asbestos Removed From Brake Pads in Devon?

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a professional asbestos removal company in Devon, serving the local community and beyond with affordable, high-quality services. Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was widely used in various products, including brake pads, until the 1980s when its dangers became evident. Since then, there have been efforts to ban the production and use of asbestos-containing products, including brake parts, to protect the public from exposure to this hazardous substance. In this article, we will explore the history of asbestos-containing brake pads and when they were removed from use in Devon and the UK.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that have been widely used in various industrial applications for their heat-resistant, insulating, and strengthening properties. Asbestos fibers are microscopic and can easily become airborne when disturbed, making them dangerous when inhaled. Prolonged exposure to asbestos has been linked to a range of serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos in Brake Parts

Asbestos was commonly used in brake pads and other vehicle parts due to its heat-resistant and friction-reducing properties. However, the use of asbestos in automotive products has been linked to asbestos exposure and related health problems in mechanics and auto workers who handled these products. To reduce the risk of such exposure, many countries have restricted or banned the use of asbestos-containing products, including brake parts.

The Asbestos Ban in the UK

In the UK, the use of asbestos in most products has been banned since 1999, following a series of regulations and directives by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). The ban covers several products, including asbestos-containing brake pads, gaskets, and thermoplastics. However, some exceptions apply, such as for asbestos used in research, analysis, and other non-commercial purposes.

The Removal of Asbestos Brake Pads

The removal of asbestos-containing brake pads in the UK started in the 1980s when the dangers of asbestos exposure became widely known. Various studies and reports have highlighted the risk of mesothelioma and other diseases among mechanics and auto workers who handled asbestos-containing brake parts. As a result, the UK government and regulatory bodies have taken measures to ban or reduce the use of these products in the automotive industry.

Asbestos Exposure and Health Risks

Asbestos exposure is a serious health risk that can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory diseases. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), workers who are exposed to asbestos fibers on a regular basis are at higher risk of developing these illnesses than the general population. Asbestos exposure can occur in various settings, including manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of asbestos-containing products, such as brake pads.

Training and Safety Precautions

Asbestos removal and handling requires a high level of expertise and safety precautions to prevent exposure and contamination. Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon has professional teams of trained and certified technicians who follow strict guidelines and procedures to ensure safe and effective removal of asbestos-containing materials. Our teams are equipped with personal protective equipment, such as respirators and coveralls, and use specialized tools and techniques to minimize the risk of exposure and spread of asbestos fibers.

Our Services

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon provides a range of asbestos-related services, including surveys, testing, removal, and disposal. Whether you need an asbestos survey for your home or commercial property, or require urgent removal of asbestos-containing materials, our experienced teams are ready to help. We use modern techniques and equipment to provide efficient, cost-effective solutions that meet all the relevant regulations and standards.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about asbestos in brake pads or other products, or require professional asbestos removal services, don't hesitate to contact us. You can reach us by phone at 01962 458066 or by email at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk for more information and to request a free quote. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you and provide you with the best possible service.