EPA Advances Efforts to Address Asbestos Risks with Comprehensive Evaluation of Legacy Uses
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken a significant step toward reducing the dangers posed by asbestos with the release of its final Risk Evaluation for Asbestos. This evaluation delves into the risks associated with legacy uses and the disposal of asbestos, expanding upon the initial part of the assessment, which addressed ongoing uses of chrysotile asbestos. This approach highlights the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health from the lingering threats of asbestos exposure.
What is Legacy Asbestos?
Legacy uses of asbestos refer to materials and products containing asbestos that are no longer manufactured, processed, or commercially distributed. However, these materials persist in older homes, schools, and commercial buildings, continuing to pose risks when disturbed. Examples of such materials include:
- Floor and ceiling tiles
- Pipe wraps
- Insulation
- Heat-protective textiles
While chrysotile asbestos was the primary focus of the first part of the risk evaluation, two expands the assessment to include the other five asbestos fiber types: crocidolite, amosite, anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite. It also covers asbestos-containing talc and Libby amphibole asbestos.
Key Findings from EPA’s Risk Evaluation
The second part of the risk evaluation concludes that asbestos continues to pose an “unreasonable risk to human health.” Key findings include:
- Worker Exposure: Construction workers engaged in cutting, sanding, or grinding asbestos materials are at the highest risk.
- Secondary Exposure: Family members of workers may be exposed to asbestos fibers carried home on clothing.
- DIY Risks: Homeowners conducting renovations without professional guidance may inadvertently disturb asbestos-containing materials, increasing their exposure.
- Community Risks: Residents near demolition or renovation sites may face environmental exposure due to airborne asbestos fibers.
Undisturbed asbestos-containing materials in buildings, such as insulation or tiles, generally do not pose immediate risks. The danger arises when these materials are improperly handled or disposed.
The EPA’s Path Forward
The EPA’s findings set the stage for a risk management process under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This process will include the development of a proposed rule to address the risks identified in the evaluation. The rule aims to ensure proper handling, removal, and disposal of asbestos-containing materials to protect workers, communities, and families.
The EPA has already taken critical actions to eliminate ongoing risks, such as the recent ban on chrysotile asbestos. Part two of the risk evaluation reinforces the need for continued vigilance and regulatory measures to address the legacy hazards of asbestos.
While the EPA’s evaluation represents a significant advancement in understanding and mitigating the risks of asbestos, further action is needed to ensure the safety of all individuals potentially affected. Public awareness campaigns, stricter regulations, and enhanced safety protocols for workers and homeowners are essential components of a comprehensive response.
Asbestos fibers are known to be highly toxic when inhaled, causing severe health conditions such as: mesothelioma, lung cancer, colon cancer, throat cancer, and asbestosis. If you believe your illness was caused by asbestos exposure, contact GPW today for a free consultation. Our team is committed to advocating for justice and holding those responsible for asbestos exposure accountable.
