Despite the significant health risks associated with asbestos exposure manufacturers still use this hazardous material in various products. Although there are strict regulations in place for its use, some industries continue to use asbestos. It is important for everyone to understand the types of products that continue to incorporate asbestos.
Construction materials
In the construction industry, manufacturers sometimes use asbestos in products where durability and fire resistance are critical. While many uses have been phased out, asbestos can still appear in roofing shingles, vinyl tiles for flooring, and cement piping. These materials benefit from asbestos’s ability to withstand high temperatures and add strength without adding much weight.
Automotive parts
The automotive sector continues to use asbestos, particularly in older vehicles. Brake linings, clutch facings, and gaskets often contain asbestos due to its ability to resist high temperatures and prevent fires in high-friction environments. Although the automotive industry has moved towards safer alternatives, some replacement parts for older vehicles might still contain asbestos.
Fireproofing and insulation
Asbestos is highly effective in fireproofing and insulation applications. Products like fireproof clothing, certain cementitious compounds used in fireproofing buildings, and insulation materials for electrical wires and appliances may contain asbestos. These uses take advantage of asbestos’s natural resistance to heat and flame spread.
Consumer goods
Though increasingly rare, some older consumer goods might still contain asbestos, especially those meant to withstand heat. Examples include older hairdryers, cooking appliances, and even some ironing board covers. As these products age, the risk of asbestos fibers becoming airborne increases, which can be a significant health hazard.
Although the use of asbestos in the United States has greatly decreased because of its health dangers and strict rules, it still exists in certain products. People who work with these materials or use older products need to know about the risks involved. It’s important to be aware of which products may still have asbestos to keep safe and healthy, especially in places where exposure to asbestos is more probable.