Asbestos-Containing Materials Associated with Steam Locomotives and Railroad Equipment

Steam-powered locomotives have been in operation since the 1830s, and since the late 1800s, most of the steam systems were insulated with asbestos-containing material (ACM). Other ACM associated with railroads included gaskets, packing, rope, brakes, and construction materials. Most steam-era locomotives were removed from service during the 1950s, although some continued operating into the 1960s. Steam locomotives today are used in the U.S. only for scenic and heritage tours, while many remain as static displays in towns and museums around the country. The results of bulk samples collected from steam locomotives on display demonstrate that large quantities of ACM remain associated with this old equipment. Amosite and chrysotile were the most common forms of asbestos found in U.S. stock, although crocidolite and anthophyllite have been reported in the scientific literature in other countries. Organizations undertaking to restore steam locomotives should apply recognized asbestos control measures when disturbing or removing these materials.