Abstract
Asbestos packing material used in valves is generally considered to be a nonfriable material unless cut or torn. In a controlled, contained area within a steam power plant, personal and area air samples were collected before and during removal of asbestos packing material from valves that had been used at the plant. The results of this study show asbestos fibers can be released into the air during the generally used procedures for the removal of asbestos packing material. Air concentrations were measured by phase contrast microscopy in the range of 0.2 to 1.3 fibers/cc and by transmission electron microscopy in the range of 1.5 to 4.2 fibers/cc for all diameter fibers greater than 5 μm in length.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
James R. Millette
Millette, J.R.; Mount, M.D.: A Study Determining Asbestos Fiber Release During the Removal of Valve Packing. Appl. Occup. Environ. Hyg. 8(9):790–793; 1993.