Goods manufactured with asbestos-substitute materials
Some goods are traditionally considered at risk of asbestos content because of their intended purpose. This includes items such as gaskets, seals and friction materials. If these goods are truly manufactured with synthetic polymers with no mineral content, they are not at risk for containing asbestos. The ABF is not always able to distinguish between these goods and those that pose a genuine risk for containing asbestos based on the import entry description. It’s therefore possible that goods manufactured only with synthetic materials will be held at the border until we receive proof.
To avoid unnecessary delay to clearance processes, importers of goods manufactured from 100% synthetic materials should be prepared to give the ABF documents that prove their structural content. This can be in the form of technical information from the overseas manufacturer or supplier. A communication from the supplier stating there is no mineral or asbestos content, without evidence, does not provide sufficient assurance for this purpose. Certain goods manufactured with part synthetic and part mineral raw materials, however, may be delayed at the border for assessment as a risk for asbestos.
