Red Spot/GEC Fuseboard, asbestos door seal/gaskets?

Ben Harris · Apr 25, 2017

Hi,

I'm Ben and I work in various quarries around the Peak District where most of the gear is 70/80s. Asbestos reports on quarries are terrible and when you query things you just get told to not touch the gear.
I have been doing testing and inspection of various small power items in the quarries and noticed the Red Spot fuseboard doors have a weird rope texture as a seal. I haven't done any asbestos training so I thought a good place to start would be the wealth of knowledge here!
After extensive research the only thing I've found is that the old Red Spot fuse holders had an asbestos backing but nowhere can I find any info on the door seals.
Please see my images and I hope someone has some knowledge! These boards are from circa 1979, for reference.

Bobster · Apr 25, 2017

They didn't normally use asbestos as the door gasket in Red spot fuse boards. I've worked in countless quarries up in the peak district an all used to have pretty good asbestos registers.

The only asbestos I remember was inside the fuse carriers themselves.

It can be misleading with the fact that the fine grey dust that gets everywhere makes it look different. It's most likely just rope.

Better being safe than sorry, don't be pulling it to bits. An get some sent off to be tested if you're worried.

Ben Harris · Apr 25, 2017

Hi Rob,

Thanks for the swift response! The register at the specific one is vague and you get the sense of 'we can't afford to be getting an extensive report done' kinda attitude which is why I'm being cautious and asking here!

It does just look like rope and this is quite reassuring, we are aware of the carriers which is a good start! Thanks

Bobster · Apr 25, 2017

Red spot do still sell replacement carriers that take cartridge fuse's, that way you can clear the old carriers with the asbestos flash pad out.

Not sure about the BILL boards, they were also quite prevalent in being installed for one company that has a lot of quarries under it's control.

telectrix · Apr 25, 2017

the asbestos in those fuse boards is only dangerous if disturbed. a bit like me when i've had ale.

Ben Harris · Apr 25, 2017

Thabks Rob, we hav a stock of them!
Well opening and closing the doors would be disturbing the rope/asbestos if is!

Bobster · Apr 25, 2017

Ben Harris said:
Thabks Rob, we hav a stock of them!
Well opening and closing the doors would be disturbing the rope/asbestos if is!

The silica in the quarry dust you're likely breathing in has a much higher probability of causing something nasty further down the line.

Like I say I'm doubtful it is asbestos, but opening and closing the doors, unless you're prying at them or hammering them to get them open. (Yes I've seen them in these kind of conditions). You shouldn't disturb them enough to release fibers into the air.