New EPA Report Reveals Lingering Risks of Asbestos: Balancing Progress with Legacy Uses

The new EPA report sheds light on the lingering dangers of asbestos, even in its legacy uses. Although typically only serious illnesses occur when the material is disturbed, all types of asbestos pose an unreasonable risk to human health.

The report highlights that five out of six types of asbestos fibers have been phased out for several decades, but can still be found in buildings constructed before 1978 and in trace amounts in products like talc, which is commonly used in baby powders. Last month, the EPA made the decision to ban all ongoing uses of chrysotile asbestos, the only type of asbestos still imported and used in the United States.

Despite these efforts, there are still significant risks associated with legacy uses of asbestos. Older buildings often contain the material in insulation, pipes, tiles and other construction materials. Proper management of these materials is crucial to prevent exposure and protect human health.

The ban on chrysotile asbestos is a step towards reducing these risks, but further efforts are needed to address legacy uses of this toxic substance and protect individuals from potential harm. It’s important for individuals and businesses to take proactive measures to manage asbestos-containing materials safely and responsibly.