The Usage of Asbestos in Construction

Asbestos use in the construction of new homes was prevalent prior to the 1980s. Construction uses of asbestos were extensive. Today many construction workers involved in demolition, maintenance, and renovation of older homes are at risk for asbestos exposure.

Construction materials that often contain asbestos include:

Roofing
Flooring
Cement pipe
Insulating cement
Insulating block
Pipe covering
Acoustical panels
Acoustical plaster
Fire brick

Linoleum backing
Ceiling tile
Heating duct insulation
Sidings
Electrical wire insulation
Fire door interiors
Boiler insulation
HVAC systems
Ventilation

Caulking compounds
T-bar ceiling tiles
Brick and block mortar
Building overhangs
Stucco
Vinyl asbestos tiles
Gaskets
Steam and hot water lines
Thermal spray
Plaster or drywall joint materials

When asbestos materials are crushed or destroyed, fibers are released and inhaled. These fibers pose severe health threats, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma—an incurable disease. While not completely banned, the law restricts asbestos use in the United States.

Asbestos construction in developing countries

Some developing countries have no government restrictions or laws limiting asbestos use. Because asbestos is very accessible and inexpensive, those countries have become major asbestos consumers. China, India, Russia, Brazil, and Thailand consume more asbestos today than any other countries in the world.

Corrugated asbestos cement sheets are the most widespread asbestos use in developing countries. While developed nations restrict asbestos use, no restrictions exist for its use in schools, homes, retail stores, churches, factories, or any buildings in developing countries. Developing countries allowing asbestos usage argue that asbestos in the bonded, sealed, or encapsulated form poses no risk.