Where Is Asbestos Still Found?
Asbestos was once widely used in industries across the United States, valued for its heat resistance and durability. Despite its known health risks, including its link to mesothelioma and lung disease, asbestos has not been fully banned in the U.S.
While its use has declined, asbestos remains present in certain products, buildings, and industrial settings.
To minimize exposure risks, it’s important to understand where asbestos is still found and to take appropriate precautions.
Asbestos in Older Buildings
Many houses and buildings that were built before the 1980s used asbestos materials in their construction, particularly in insulation, flooring, and roofing. Schools, office buildings, and homes from this period may still have asbestos-containing materials in ceilings, walls, and pipes.
If left undisturbed, asbestos does not pose an immediate health threat, but renovations, demolition, or deterioration can release harmful fibers into the air.
Public buildings, including older courthouses, hospitals, and universities, continue to undergo asbestos abatement efforts to remove or contain these materials. Homeowners with older properties may encounter asbestos in attic insulation, popcorn ceilings, or vinyl flooring.
Testing by professionals is the safest way to confirm its presence before starting any home improvement projects.
Industrial and Manufacturing Facilities
Asbestos is still found in some industrial settings, particularly in chemical plants, oil refineries, and factories. In these environments, asbestos was historically used for fireproofing, machinery insulation, and piping.
While safety regulations have reduced its use, some older equipment and facilities still contain asbestos materials. Workers in these industries may face exposure risks, especially if there aren’t proper protective measures in place.
Shipyards also remain a source of asbestos exposure. Decades ago, asbestos was commonly used in shipbuilding for insulation and fireproofing. While new ships are built using safer materials, older vessels may still contain asbestos, posing risks to workers involved in ship maintenance or demolition.
Consumer Products and Materials
Although the use of asbestos in consumer products has significantly declined, it has not been completely eliminated. Some imported products still contain asbestos, including certain automotive parts, construction materials, and even household items.
Brake pads, gaskets, and clutches in older cars may contain asbestos, particularly in vehicles manufactured before strict regulations were established.
Some common materials used in construction, like cement pipes, roofing tiles, and commercial sealants, can also contain small amounts of asbestos. Reports have even surfaced about asbestos contamination in talc-based products, like baby powders and cosmetics.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has banned specific uses of asbestos, but some industries continue to import limited amounts for specialized applications. While the risk of exposure from consumer products is lower than in past decades, caution is still necessary when handling older materials or imported goods.
Asbestos in Landfills and Dump Sites
Improper disposal of asbestos materials poses an environmental hazard, particularly in landfills and abandoned industrial sites. When asbestos-containing materials break down, fibers can become airborne, creating risks for nearby communities.
Some areas with a history of heavy asbestos use, such as mining towns and manufacturing hubs, continue to deal with contamination.
Workplace Exposure Risks
Despite regulations, certain occupations still face asbestos exposure risks. Construction workers, electricians, and plumbers who work in older buildings may encounter asbestos when cutting through walls, replacing insulation, or removing old tiles.
Firefighters are another group at risk, as burning buildings can put asbestos fibers into the air.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates protective measures be met in workplaces where asbestos exposure is a possibility. However, cases of improper handling and lack of awareness still occur, putting workers at risk of developing long-term health conditions.
Ongoing Efforts to Reduce Asbestos Exposure
Government agencies continue to monitor and regulate asbestos use, but a complete ban has not yet been implemented in the U.S. The EPA has restricted new uses, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) oversees potential asbestos contamination in consumer goods.
However, asbestos remains legal in limited applications, and exposure risks still remain in older buildings and work sites.
Many advocacy groups continue to push for a full ban, citing the severe health effects linked to asbestos exposure. As medical research and awareness grow, efforts to eliminate asbestos from all industries may gain further momentum.
Protecting Yourself from Asbestos Exposure
If you live or work in an environment where asbestos may be present, taking precautions is essential. Before renovating an older home or building, have materials tested for asbestos by a certified professional.
If asbestos is found, removal should be handled by abatement teams who are trained to prevent airborne contamination.
Workers in high-risk industries should follow safety guidelines, wear protective equipment, and report any suspected asbestos hazards to their employers. If exposure has already occurred, regular medical checkups can help detect potential health issues early.
At Schweickert Ganassin Krzak Rundio, LLP, we believe that understanding where asbestos is still found in the U.S. helps us all to take necessary precautions to protect ourselves and our families, as well as advocate for stronger protections.
While regulations have reduced its use, asbestos remains an ongoing concern that requires continued awareness and action.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with asbestos-exposure-related illness, our experienced personal injury lawyers are here to help.
