Is Asbestos Still Used Today in the United States?
Yes, asbestos is still present in the United States, but its use has been drastically reduced and is now highly regulated at the federal level.
Current legal status
Asbestos is not fully banned in the U.S., but most commercial uses have been restricted for decades. In March 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finalized a rule under the Toxic Substances Control Act to ban ongoing uses of chrysotile asbestos, the last form still imported for industrial purposes. This rule includes phase-out periods, meaning some limited uses may continue temporarily while industries transition to safer alternatives.
Where asbestos is still found
Even today, asbestos can still be found in many older buildings across the United States. Structures built before the 1980s may contain asbestos in insulation, roofing materials, floor tiles, pipe wrapping, cement products and fireproofing materials. These materials are not dangerous if left undisturbed, but they can release harmful fibers when damaged, renovated or demolished.
Health and safety concerns
Exposure to asbestos fibers is known to cause serious diseases, including lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis. Because of these risks, agencies such as the EPA and OSHA strictly regulate how asbestos is handled, removed and disposed of. Only trained and licensed professionals should perform asbestos inspection or removal.
Why asbestos is still a concern
Although new uses are being phased out, asbestos remains a concern due to its presence in existing buildings and infrastructure. Property owners, contractors and homeowners should be aware that asbestos may still be present and take proper precautions before starting any renovation or demolition work.
Asbestos is no longer widely used in the United States, but it has not completely disappeared. Strong regulations and recent federal actions aim to eliminate remaining uses, while professional asbestos abatement remains essential for managing legacy materials safely.