Guest Post

This is the first in a series of guest posts on our blog. The subject of this post is the dangers present in the replacement parts we often handle doing maintanance on our cars



Terrible Dangers in Automobiles - By Brian Turner

Automobile garage workers face an increased risk of developing mesothelioma from exposure to asbestos in automotive parts. Hood liners, brake pads, drums, clutch assembly parts, transmission boxes, valve stem packing and gaskets often contain asbestos. The asbestos laden dust created by such parts adversely affects the respiratory system. Some workers who breathe in the dust will later go on to develop mesothelioma.

The toxins n-Hexane, acetone, xylene isomers, ethyl-benzene and toluene are all found in automobile parts. An automobile's interior plastics often contain toluene, which has been found to impair the central nervous system. Ethyl-benzene and n-Hexane occur in the auto's plastics. Both chemicals pose a risk to the neurological system. Inhalation of xylene isomers used in paints and glosses can cause nose and throat irritation. Ongoing exposure will often cause headaches. Excessive exposure may cause miscarriage or severe birth defects, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Acetone is normally present in the glues used in the auto. Over time, it can cause severe mucus membrane irritation.

During the manufacture of an automobile, phthalates are often used to soften upholstery and plastics. Phthalates are a known carcinogen. Excessive exposure can also cause birth defects and intellectual delays in children. The chemicals have also been found to cause liver toxicity.

Polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE) is often used in fire retardants that are used in automobile foam. The dust created by the PBDE can linger in the auto for years. The California Environmental Protection Agency states that PBDEs may cause developmental deficits, act as a reproductive toxin and disrupt thyroid hormones. The chemicals are also believed to be a carcinogen.

Even the best automobile exhaust system will not successfully filter out all exhaust. Minute amounts may still flow back into the auto's interior. The auto's exhaust often contains benzene, carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide and polycyclic hydrocarbons. Long-term exposure to benzene can decrease the bone marrow's function. Short-term exposure may cause headaches and gastrointestinal problems. Carbon monoxide affects the oxygen in the blood. If the exposure to the carbon monoxide is excessive or prolonged, the person will suffocate and die. Sulphur dioxide in large amounts causes skin burns or irritation. Polycyclic hydrocarbons exposure often causes shock in sensitive individuals.

All automobiles contain varying degrees of harmful chemicals. Older auto's often have higher levels of the chemicals and pose the greatest risk. Automobile garage workers still face the greatest danger from exposure to the excessive chemicals that go into the manufacture of the automobile's various parts.

About the author:

Brian Turner has been working with the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance as an environmental health and toxic substance safety advocate since June of 2007. Brian brings a tremendous amount of research and awareness experience in environmental health risks, environmental carcinogens, and green building expertise. Brian is very interested in all types of cars; his favorites are classic, muscle, and imports. Brian is commonly found playing and watching various sports with his friends.
http://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/authors/brian/