There needs to be more clarity about what asbestos actually is. People readily become fearful when someone hears asbestos, with good reason. It has been linked to considerable health risks with long-sustained exposure to the release of asbestos fibers.
Now, to answer the question, what exactly is asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of long, thin fibers. It has been valued for its strength, heat resistance, and insulating properties, leading to its widespread use in various industries, including construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. In ancient Rome and Greece, it was considered the miracle mineral for its fire resistance and durability. Six types of asbestos minerals are classified into two categories: serpentine (chrysotile) and amphibole (crocidolite, amosite, anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite).
The three types used in construction are chrysotile, crocidolite, and amosite. Chrysotile is the asbestos most commonly found in asbestos-containing building materials.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began regulating asbestos due to the recognized health hazards associated with exposure to its fibers. Asbestos has been linked to serious respiratory diseases, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Asbestos regulation in the United States has evolved, with significant steps taken to mitigate its risks: the Clean Air Act of 1970, the Toxic Substance Control Act, the Asbestos Ban and Phase Out Rule of 1989.
The regulation of asbestos continues to be a complex and evolving process, involving multiple agencies and ongoing efforts to balance the benefits of asbestos-containing materials with the need to protect public health and the environment. It's essential to stay informed about updates or changes in asbestos regulations.