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- What Is the Status of Asbestos in Consumer Products?
- What Products Are Banned by the EPA?
- What New Uses of Asbestos Are Allowed?
- What Consumer and Aftermarket Products May Contain Asbestos?
- How Can I Be Safe from Asbestos Exposure?
- What Should You Do If You’ve Been Exposed to Asbestos?
- The Dangers of Vermiculite Insulation
- How to Handle Vermiculite Insulation Safely
- Related Reading
What Is the Status of Asbestos in Consumer Products?
Despite years of regulation and growing awareness of the dangers of asbestos, many products that still contain asbestos are still in circulation. While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) acknowledges there is no safe level of asbestos exposure, only a limited number of products have been fully banned from use in new construction and renovation projects.
What Products Are Banned by the EPA?
The EPA has placed restrictions on certain asbestos-containing products, particularly those used in new construction and renovations. The banned products include:
- Spray-applied surfacing materials containing more than 1% asbestos (unless encapsulated with specific binders during application).
- Pre-formed asbestos pipe insulation and block insulation for boilers and hot water tanks.
- Corrugated paper, rollboard, specialty paper, commercial paper, and flooring felt.
What New Uses of Asbestos Are Allowed?
While many uses of asbestos have been restricted, certain products may still legally contain asbestos. Additionally, asbestos can sometimes be found in products made of talc, such as cosmetics, due to contamination from naturally occurring asbestos deposits.
What Consumer and Aftermarket Products May Contain Asbestos?
Several common consumer and aftermarket products still contain asbestos, putting users at risk of exposure. Some of these products include:
- Adhesives and Appliance components
- Auto brake and clutch product
- Ceiling plaster, tiles, and mastic
- Cement-asbestos board (Transite) products
- Chalkboards and Electrical insulation
- Fireproofing materials like fire blankets and curtains
- Roofing products, including shingles and felt
- Wall products like spackle, caulk, and sheetrock
How Can I Be Safe from Asbestos Exposure?
To protect yourself from asbestos exposure:
- Check product labels: Always verify if a product contains asbestos before purchasing, particularly for home renovations or automotive repairs.
- Hire professionals: If you must use a product that might contain asbestos, hire a licensed contractor who can apply the product safely to minimize exposure.
What Should You Do If You’ve Been Exposed to Asbestos?
If you suspect you’ve been exposed to asbestos, particularly from any of the products mentioned, you may be at risk for asbestos-related diseases. Mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis are common diseases linked to asbestos exposure. If you’ve developed a condition linked to asbestos, an experienced Minnesota asbestos attorney at Sieben Polk P.A. can help you determine your sources of exposure and explore compensation options.
The Dangers of Vermiculite Insulation
Vermiculite insulation, once a common choice in home insulation, has become a major concern due to its asbestos contamination. It was often used in attics, especially in colder climates like Minnesota, Wisconsin, and the Dakotas. While vermiculite is heat and fire-resistant, it is often tainted with asbestos fibers, posing hidden health risks.
How to Handle Vermiculite Insulation Safely
If you discover vermiculite insulation in your home, avoid disturbing it. Disturbing the material could release harmful asbestos fibers into the air. For removal or renovation, consult a trained asbestos abatement professional to ensure safe handling and removal.
