Preliminary Survey Report: Evaluation of Brake Drum Service Controls at U.S. Army Armor Center, Fort Knox, Kentucky

摘要

A visit was made to the U.S. Army Armor Center (SIC-9711), Fort Knox, Kentucky, as part of a study of asbestos (1332214) hazards encountered during the maintenance and repair of vehicular brakes. Approximately 800 vehicles were maintained at the center each year with about 100 brake jobs being needed during that course of time. Exposure to asbestos may occur during cleaning, maintenance, and repair of brakes. Workers were encouraged to use good work practices including the complete water rinsing and wet bristle brushing of all exposed parts prior to handling, gently removing and handling all parts, consistently using all required personal protective equipment, and following instructions for use of asbestos control devices. Annual physical examinations were provided for workers performing vehicular brake repair services. The author concludes that the facility did not appear to have asbestos controls which were sufficient to protect the workers from asbestos dust arising from service operations. The advisability of conducting an in depth evaluation of the controls at the facility will be made in the future, after all the preliminary surveys and finalization of the protocol for the project has been reached.