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Insufficient Warning Signs on Danger Awareness & Labels

page 2 from Q & A  Safety Letter

February 10, 2004

The Honorable Patty Murray
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510-4704

Question 4: What activities are EPA and OSHA currently undertaking to monitor the risks of asbestos exposures to auto mechanics, to provide adequate asbestos-related safety information to auto mechanics and the public, and to enforce asbestos labeling requirements and safety standards?

Response: The current asbestos standard specifically addresses exposures during automobile brake and clutch work. Its provisions at 29 CFR 1910.1001(f)(3) and its mandatory Appendix F set forth the required engineering controls and work practices for performing this work activity.

Consult our New York Workers Compensation Attorney experts at Drobenko & Associates.

Federal OSHA and state occupational safety and health agencies with OSHA-approved state plans enforce the current asbestos standard through their inspection programs. Asbestos is examined during routine inspections, but primarily during inspections conducted in response to complaints from employees or as a result of referrals from Federal or State agencies. Regardless of the reason for the complaint or referral, Federal and state compliance officers search for evidence of actual or potential asbestos exposure.

In addition to enforcement, OSHA provides compliance assistance to employers and employees to help them understand the dangers of asbestos and what can be done to minimize the threat. OSHA's web page connects computer users to concise and easy-to-read publications on asbestos, which are available to the public free of charge. Pamphlets explain the requirements of the standard for both general industry and construction. Included in each is a list of sources of assistance. OSHA's web page also includes reports, links to other web sites, slides, and information about taking samples and controlling exposure to asbestos. Furthermore, each state has consultation programs funded by Federal OSHA that help employers understand what they must do to comply with OSHA standards, including the general industry asbestos standard.

Thank you for your interest in occupational safety and health. We hope you find this information helpful. To keep apprised of recent developments, you can consult OSHA's website at http://www.osha.gov. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the Office of Health Enforcement at (202) 693-2190.

Sincerely,

John L. Henshaw
Assistant Secretary