Brake pads and asbestos

[zalle]

Hi guys,

I put back the original 45 year old Nissin pads on my Z (I think they are original, not 100% sure since I bought the bike used, in 94).
I recently renewed the brakes, and sanded the pads by hand.
I read that these pads have asbestos... Is it a problem?

[Dynamohum]

Well, how do you mean ‘problem’? You (have) heard that asbestos can be lethal if enough of it is inhaled or if you’re directly exposed to it right? I suppose that wearing gloves and a mask while handling asbestos or while sanding an asbestos infused brake pad is a good idea although a single episode of exposure probably isn’t anything to worry about.

[zalle]

Well, thanks. Just one more stupid thing I did in my life.

[Larry Zimmer]

Not to worry. Use them until they're gone.