Is Asbestos Still Used? What You Need to Know

Although it was prohibited from being used in insulation goods in the 1970s, many older structures still contain asbestos. The Toxic Substances Control Act currently prohibits asbestos from being used in various flooring and paper products and any newly created products with no prior use of asbestos in their production.

Despite requests from public health professionals to do so, it is still not entirely outlawed, which may help to explain why mortality among people under 55 due to asbestos exposure continues, according to CDC researchers. Let’s look at what products still contain asbestos in their formula.

How Was Asbestos Used?

It is estimated that asbestos was used in an astonishing 3,000 distinct products. This dangerous material can be encountered virtually anywhere- from vinyl flooring and patching compounds to textured paints and roof shingles; even fire-retardant clothing and brake pads may contain it! Asbestos is also found in acoustic ceilings, stove insulation, wall/ceiling insulation, and home appliances. 

Considering its prevalence, we must always be careful when dealing with anything that may contain this hazardous material because asbestos fibers, when released, adhere to your lungs.

What Is Asbestos Still Used In?

Asbestos is still used in many products, especially those that must withstand high temperatures and provide effective insulation. The major manufacturing uses in the United States are asphaltic roofing compounds used on commercial buildings (61%), gaskets (19%), and friction products, such as brake shoes and clutches (13%). Most of these products are utilized on a commercial basis and are installed under conditions regulated by OSHA. Therefore, the general public should not come into contact with asbestos.

You can find asbestos in products, including

• Cement pipes and sheets
• Textured paint coatings
• Vinyl floor tiles and adhesives
• Roof shingles
• Fire retardant clothing
• Automotive brakes and clutches
• Acoustic ceilings
• Electrical insulation materials
• Stove insulation
• Wall and ceiling insulation
• Home appliances

Where Can Asbestos Be Found Nowadays?

Today, numerous buildings (such as public structures and schools) plus homes contain Asbestos-containing material (ACM). The age of the building is a key factor here; older constructions are more likely to contain ACMs. However, if you’ve built your home within the past two decades, you’re in luck – there’s little chance that any asbestos exists.

It is important to note that asbestos has not been eliminated from our lives – it is still present, albeit in much smaller amounts than before. For this reason, people must take appropriate steps to protect themselves and their families from asbestos exposure. This includes hiring a qualified professional when dealing with products containing this material and regularly inspecting and maintaining any older structures that may contain asbestos.

Clean Cut Abatement: Asbestos Removal Experts

While asbestos is still used in some products and buildings, it is not present in the same way or quantity as before. Today, there are no asbestos-containing products specifically manufactured for use by the general public. 

All home and building owners should be aware of any potential risks posed by this material and take steps to identify or inspect any older structures that may contain asbestos. By following these steps and consulting with a qualified professional when needed, you can help to ensure the safety of your family and environment.

Clean Cut Abatement is experienced in identifying and removing potential asbestos in your home or business. We collaborate with all major insurance providers to guarantee that your asbestos removal project is completed quickly and effectively. 

Contact us today to learn more about our asbestos testing, abatement, and removal services in Wyandotte, Detroit & other areas in Michigan. We are here to help you and your family stay safe!