Asbestos Ban: Everything You Need to Know
In this blog post, we’ll explore the long history of asbestos, the risks it poses, and more. Let’s dive in!
Asbestos has a long and controversial history. Its unique fireproof properties have made it popular in various industries, but it also poses serious health risks when its fibers are inhaled. For decades, there have been fights and legal battles to have the toxic fire retardant regulated to reduce the risks it poses, and throughout the years, industries have become stricter.
Many assume that all asbestos has already been banned in the United States. However, this was not the case until March 2024. Prior to that, chrysotile asbestos was still allowed in the United States for certain products. Now, we have reached a new historic milestone: EPA has banned all use and importation of chrysotile asbestos moving forward—the last type of asbestos still used by U.S. industries.
While this is incredible news for future health and safety, it does not mean that the asbestos risk will disappear overnight. Despite these regulations, asbestos exposure remains a threat and cause for concern because it can still be present in products and materials manufactured before the effective date of this new ban. That’s why it’s important to stay educated about the risks of asbestos and what to do if you suspect its presence.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of thin, fibrous crystals. It has been used for centuries due to its remarkable properties, including heat resistance, durability, and sound absorption.
Chrysotile asbestos, often referred to as white asbestos, is one of the six recognized types of asbestos minerals. Its serpentine structure, characterized by long, curly fibers, sets chrysotile apart. This form of asbestos has been used in various industries, particularly in construction materials such as roofing, insulation, and cement. Its flexibility and strength have made it a popular choice for enhancing the performance of diverse materials.
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A History of Asbestos Regulations in the United States
Asbestos has been recognized as a hazardous material for decades, with widespread knowledge of its harmful effects dating back to the 1970s. Despite this knowledge, the use of asbestos has persisted in the United States. According to an article from The Washington Post, this ban comes 33 years after a federal judge blocked EPA’s initial attempt to ban the mineral. In the 1970s, the United States used over 800,000 tons annually in manufacturing work compared to the 1,000 tons we have seen in recent years.
The new regulations prohibit the import, processing, and distribution of asbestos in all forms, closing a long-standing loophole that had allowed certain limited uses of the material. This ban is a crucial step in protecting the health and safety of workers and the general public from the dangers of asbestos exposure.
- 1970s: Asbestos was declared a carcinogen, and regulations were promulgated to limit its use.
- 1989: EPA issued the Asbestos Ban and Phase-Out Rule, which restricted new uses of asbestos. In 1991, however, this regulation was overturned, leaving only a few asbestos-containing products banned.
- 2024: EPA banned the ongoing use of chrysotile asbestos under the Toxic Substances Control Act, marking a major milestone in chemical safety efforts.
Asbestos Throughout History
Asbestos has a surprisingly long and intriguing history, spanning ancient civilizations to modern times. From its use in cloth and pottery to its modern-day applications in industry, here are just a few of the most intriguing highlights of this remarkable mineral’s journey through time:
- Ancient Times: Archeologists have discovered asbestos fibers dating to the Stone Age. As early as 4000 B.C., these long, hair-like fibers were used for wicks in lamps and candles.
- Egyptian Pharaohs: Embalmed bodies of Egyptian pharaohs were wrapped in asbestos cloth to protect them from deterioration.
- Greece and Rome: Greeks and Romans exploited asbestos for its fireproofing properties. However, they also documented its harmful effects on those who mined it.
- Industrial Revolution: Asbestos use increased significantly during the Industrial Age, especially in World War II.
- Modern Industry: Asbestos found its way into construction materials, insulation, automotive parts, and more.
Why Is Asbestos Harmful?
Asbestos poses significant health risks due to its fibrous nature. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne and easily inhaled into the lungs. Over time, these fibers can accumulate and cause damage to lung tissue, leading to serious health consequences such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis, a condition specifically related to repeated exposure to asbestos that causes scar tissue to form in the lungs and leads to difficulty breathing. Asbestos exposure can also cause other forms of cancer and breathing problems and is linked to over 40,000 deaths per year in the United States.
Looking for Asbestos Testing?
Are you considering asbestos testing but not sure what to expect? We’ve got answers! Check out our Sample Asbestos Survey Report Guide: https://www.moldinspectiontexas.com/sample-asbestos-survey-report-guide. This report presents the detailed summary and conclusions completed by one of our licensed asbestos inspectors. While we perform asbestos surveys, inspections, and testing only in our Texas locations, we’re here to help guide you no matter where you live.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Individuals who are most at risk of asbestos exposure are those who work in industries where asbestos has been commonly used or encountered. They include construction workers, asbestos miners and handlers, insulation installers, automotive mechanics, shipyard workers, and demolition crews.
Those who live or work in buildings constructed before the 1980s may also be at risk of exposure if asbestos-containing materials deteriorate or are disturbed during renovation or maintenance activities. Family members of workers exposed to asbestos may also face secondary exposure risks through contaminated work clothing or equipment.
Need Help With an Asbestos Survey or Testing?
We currently offer asbestos surveys, inspections, and testing only in our Texas locations. To contact an asbestos specialist at Mold Inspections Sciences Texas, please call 1.888.335.6653. For locations outside of Texas, we are happy to refer you to a local asbestos professional. Please call 1.800.619.6653
