Is asbestos still a big problem in the US?

For many, asbestos sounds like a problem of the past. However, it very much remains a persistent issue across the United States, quietly affecting homes, schools and workplaces built decades ago. While regulations have banned the use of asbestos in construction today, its legacy continues to pose health challenges. 

Why asbestos hasn’t disappeared

Asbestos was a widely used substance throughout much of the 20th century, due to being a cheap and durable material that is also highly resistant to fire. It is usually found in building materials, including insulation, roofing, floor tiles and cement sheets, although it also makes appearances in other consumer goods, such as textiles or car parts. 

In the mid-1900s, global societies became increasingly aware of the undeniable health risks linked to the use of asbestos, through cases of lung cancer and asbestosis. This led to a sharp decline of its use, however, millions of buildings constructed before remained, still containing these materials. 

Health risks and regulatory gaps

The tricky aspect of asbestos is that it isn’t always dangerous on its own – it only becomes a risk when disturbed during renovations or repairs. This is why it remains a “hidden” problem for many property owners that don’t realize it is even present in their home. Specialist asbestos testing services are necessary to find it. Another issue is the long latency period of asbestos-related health issues. Symptoms may not appear for a long time after exposure (20 to 50 years), meaning people may have been exposed to it decades ago, but only diagnosed today. 

From a regulatory point of view, the US approach has been fragmented. While certain uses got restricted in the 1970s, the ban wasn’t complete until very recently, when the states finalized the ban for all ongoing uses of chrysotile asbestos in March 2024. Such a delay left a lot of room for imported products that still contain asbestos, leaving the Americans exposed to health risks even today. This is where asbestos inspection services have become an important player. 

Massachusetts as a case study

With a large number of older homes and historic buildings, Massachusetts is amongst the states that suffer from ongoing asbestos concerns. One of the recent examples was the closure of the Star Market in Newtonville, a building operating since the 1930s. On the bright side, the state offers a useful case study of how the problem can be managed effectively with localized asbestos testing Massachusetts services. 

Companies focused on asbestos inspection in Massachusetts specifically can provide the right knowledge and expertise, according to the local regulations and building history. They offer businesses and property owners the information they need to act safely, using clear communication and well-structured solutions. Once the cases are confirmed, the hazardous materials can be removed discreetly, with utmost professionalism. 

A problem that requires ongoing attention

Asbestos may no longer be in the spotlight, but it hasn’t gone away. Its presence in the older buildings are still causing issues, bringing on serious risks of long-term health conditions. However, with the availability of professional, locally-focused asbestos testing services, this problem can be managed safely and effectively. 

Image Source: Freepik | brgfx

Photo by Volodymyr Hryshchenko on Unsplash