What is Asbestos & Why it Matters

 Asbestos was commonly used in building materials for its durability and fire resistance. However, when disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne and pose serious health risks if inhaled. Many homes and buildings constructed before the 1980s may still contain asbestos in materials such as insulation, flooring, ceiling textures, pipe wrap, and siding.

 The use of asbestos dates back over 4,000 years, with ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Romans using it in pottery, clothing, and building materials. However, it wasn’t until the late 19th and early 20th centuries that asbestos became widely used during the Industrial Revolution. It was prized for its fireproofing, insulation, and durability—ideal for construction, automotive parts, and shipbuilding. By the mid-20th century, asbestos was everywhere: in insulation, flooring, roofing, cement products, brake pads, and even household appliances. Its widespread use was driven by its low cost and impressive physical properties.

 By the 1970s and 1980s, many countries began regulating asbestos use. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) imposed strict limits on exposure, although a complete ban has yet to be enacted. Other countries, like the UK, Australia, and most of the European Union, banned asbestos outright in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

The primary reason for these bans was public health. As scientific evidence became undeniable and legal claims against manufacturers surged, governments moved to protect their populations from the long-term health effects of exposure.

 Despite its industrial appeal, the dangers of asbestos exposure began to surface by the early 20th century. Prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause serious illnesses, including:

• Asbestosis (chronic lung disease)
• Mesothelioma (a rare and aggressive cancer)
• Lung cancer
• Pleural plaques and effusions

These conditions often take decades to manifest, making early detection difficult. As medical evidence mounted, concerns about worker and public safety grew, particularly in industries where airborne asbestos dust was common.