_API_609-2004.pdf

IMPORTANT INFORMATION CONCERNING USE OF ASBESTOSOR ALTERNATIVE MATERIALSAsbestos is specified or referenced for certain components of the equipment described insome API standards.It has been of extreme usefulness in minimizing fire hazards associatedwith petroleum processing.It has also been a universal sealing material,compatible withmost refining fluid services.Certain serious adverse health effects are associated with asbestos,among them the seri-ous and often fatal diseases of lung cancer,asbestosis,and mesothelioma(a cancer of thechest and abdominal linings).The degree of exposure to asbestos varies with the product andthe work practices involved.Consult the most recent edition of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration(OSHA).U.S.Department of Labor,Occupational Safety and Health Standard for Asbestos,Tremolite,Anthophyllite,and Actinolite,29 Code of Federal Regulations Section1910.1001:the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency,National Emission Standard forAsbestos,40 Code of Federal Regulations Sections 61.140 through 61.156;and the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency(EPA)rule on labeling requirements and phased banningof asbestos products(Sections 763.160-179).There are currently in use and under development a number of substitute materials toreplace asbestos in certain applications.Manufacturers and users are encouraged to developand use effective substitute materials that can meet the specifications for,and operatingrequirements of,the equipment to which they would apply.SAFETY AND HEALTH INFORMATION WITH RESPECT TO PARTICULARPRODUCTS OR MATERIALS CAN BE OBTAINED FROM THE EMPLOYER,THEMANUFACTURER OR SUPPLIER OF THAT PRODUCT OR MATERIAL.OR THEMATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET.GoeroaAtsPaeenoeNot for Resale