Uses of Asbestos

Prior to widespread awareness of its health hazards (particularly asbestos diseases) asbestos was a commonly used material because of its high-tensile strength, flexibility and fire/heat resistance. The uses of asbestos were often related to insulation in one form or another because of its resistance to heat (and certain chemicals); however, the metamorphic mineral could be found in a wide range of products spanning a variety of industries.

Asbestos Insulation

Asbestos insulation was most commonly used in the construction of American homes built throughout the twentieth century. It is estimated that some 30 million homes, schools and offices continue to contain asbestos insulation. The EPA states that asbestos insulation is not a health hazard unless it has been damaged in some way so as to allow for the release of toxic asbestos fibers into the atmosphere. In such cases, it is recommended that damaged asbestos insulation be repaired whenever possible rather than removed because the removal process can potentially cause a far greater asbestos exposure risk.

Outside of serving as an insulator for buildings, asbestos insulation has also been used to line a variety of products such as pipes, kettles, irons, microwaves, hair dryers, fire doors, etc., all of which require some type of fire/heat resistance.

Other Uses of Asbestos

Although uses of asbestos are commonly associated with asbestos insulation, the metamorphic mineral has been used throughout a surprisingly wide range of commercial and industrial products:

  • Baby powder
  • Talc
  • Fire retardant products
  • Cement siding
  • Fertilizers
  • Fume hoods
  • Stucco
  • Brick and block mortar
  • Joint compounds
  • Sheetrock
  • Wallboard
  • Vinyl flooring
  • Vinyl tile
  • Potting mixtures
  • Spackling compounds

The aforementioned list of products is but a snapshot of the many uses of asbestos and asbestos-based materials.

Uses of Asbestos Post-Asbestos Regulation

Since asbestos regulation began under Section 112 of the Clean Air Act in 1970, uses of asbestos have dwindled. Companies and product manufacturers have increasingly opted towards more expensive alternatives in order to ensure the safety of their employees and the public at large and avoidance of any personal injury and/or wrongful death liabilities faced by most remaining asbestos companies. Some of the safer materials that have replaced uses of asbestos include fiberglass, polyurethane foam, cotton and nitrogen-based plastic foam.

Paul and Hanley, LLP

If you believe you are suffering from an asbestos-related disease, please contact Paul & Hanley LLP to discuss your legal options.