In a decision that most people think was long overdue, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it was banning chrysotile asbestos in the US. Chrysotile is the most common form of asbestos, a substance that kills tens of thousands of people in our country yearly. More than 50 other countries have already banned chrysotile asbestos. A knowledgeable asbestos attorney in Chicago can help you understand your legal rights and options if you have a history of asbestos exposure.
Overview Of The New Ban
Asbestos is a cancer-causing substance linked to lung and ovarian cancer, mesothelioma, and other deadly illnesses. The following is an overview of the new ban attempting to decrease these harmful effects:
- The U.S. has formally banned the use of chrysotile asbestos, joining over 50 other countries.
- The ban comes after decades of pushback from companies that have used asbestos in various products.
- The ban targets certain products still containing asbestos, such as gaskets and aftermarket automotive products.
- The chlor-alkali industry, which produces chemicals, will phase out using asbestos diaphragms.
- Previous attempts to ban asbestos failed, but this ban is the first rule finalized under the updated national chemical safety law.
- The ban will require producers to transition from using asbestos diaphragms to non-asbestos alternatives within specific timeframes.
- Certain products, like oilfield brake blocks and sheet gaskets containing asbestos, will be prohibited from containing asbestos.
- The ban is a step forward for public health, but stronger protections are necessary for phasing out other dangerous asbestos fibers.
- The use of asbestos in the U.S. has been decreasing, but it still exists in certain industries.
- The ban aims to protect American families, workers, and communities from the harmful effects of asbestos.
What Took So Long?
Even though scientists have known for decades that asbestos causes cancer, manufacturers continued to fight asbestos bans. The first major effort to ban the substance dates back to the 1980s. The EPA announced it will ban asbestos in 1989, but only a federal court can overturn it in 1991. Every time government agencies pushed to outlaw asbestos use, courts would continually defeat those efforts.
Asbestos Was Becoming More And More Obsolete
Thankfully, most industries stopped using asbestos products years ago. The following are a few of the industries that were some of the biggest users of asbestos, which they once hailed as a miracle material for its fire-resistant and insulating properties.
Building Materials: Asbestos is commonly used in various building materials, including insulation, roofing materials, cement products, and floor tiles. However, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) have largely been replaced with safer alternatives. Modern insulation materials, such as fiberglass and mineral wool, offer comparable thermal and acoustic properties without the health risks associated with asbestos.
Automotive Parts: Due to its heat resistance and frictional properties, asbestos was once a common component in automotive brake pads, brake linings, and clutch facings. However, asbestos-containing automotive parts have been phased out in many countries, and manufacturers now use asbestos-free materials such as ceramic fibers, organic compounds, and metallic fibers.
Textiles and Clothing: Asbestos fibers were sometimes incorporated into textiles and clothing for their fire-retardant properties, including items like fireproof suits worn by firefighters and industrial workers. However, asbestos in textiles has been largely discontinued due to health concerns. Modern fire-resistant fabrics utilize synthetic materials or treated natural fibers as safer alternatives.
Consumer Products: Various products once contained asbestos, including hair dryers, toasters, and ironing board covers. Manufacturers used asbestos as a heat-resistant material in electrical appliances and household items. However, stricter regulations and consumer awareness campaigns have led manufacturers to replace asbestos with safer alternatives in these products.
Joint Compounds and Sealants: Asbestos-containing joint compounds and sealants were commonly used in construction for filling gaps and seams in walls and ceilings. However, the use of asbestos in these products has declined significantly, and many manufacturers now offer asbestos-free alternatives that meet building codes and safety standards.
Gaskets and Packing Materials: Asbestos was once a common component in gaskets, seals, and packing materials due to its heat and chemical resistance. However, the use of asbestos in these applications has been greatly reduced, with manufacturers opting for safer materials such as rubber, graphite, and PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) for sealing and insulation purposes.
Adhesives and Glues: Some adhesives and glues used in construction and manufacturing processes contain asbestos as a reinforcement agent. However, advancements in adhesive technology have led to the development of asbestos-free alternatives that offer comparable bonding strength and durability without the associated health risks.
Mesothelioma And Other Illnesses Are Still A Concern In The U.S.
While asbestos is more regulated and used less frequently in the United States, asbestos exposure continues to pose a significant health risk. Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer, as well as other asbestos-related illnesses, remains a concern for individuals who were exposed to this harmful substance, as well as others who suffered secondary exposure to asbestos.
Mesothelioma, specifically caused by asbestos exposure, primarily affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. Due to the long latency period, with symptoms often not appearing until decades after exposure, individuals who have worked in industries with asbestos must remain vigilant about their health.
If you have a history of asbestos exposure and received a serious diagnosis, consult with a mesothelioma lawyer experienced in asbestos litigation to understand your legal rights and options.
Seeking legal representation can help you pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. An experienced asbestos attorney can guide you through the legal options available to you, ensuring your rights are protected and helping you secure the financial resources needed for medical treatments and care. Options might include seeking compensation from an asbestos trust fund or bringing a separate legal claim.
Consult A Mesothelioma Lawyer Today
Remember, even though asbestos is used less now and hopefully will be completely phased out in the U.S. following this ban, the threat of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses persists. If you have a history of asbestos exposure, stay informed about the latest developments in asbestos litigation and consult with a knowledgeable asbestos attorney to understand your legal rights and options.
