Has the federal government established laws or regulations to decrease asbestos exposure?
Yes. In 1989, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned all new uses of asbestos; however, uses established prior to 1989 are still permitted. The EPA has also established regulations that require school systems to inspect for damaged asbestos, and to eliminate or reduce the exposure to occupants by removing the asbestos or having it encased. The EPA also regulates the release of asbestos from factories during building, demolition, or renovation to monitor the level of asbestos fibers from damaged materials entering the environment. In addition to the EPA, other government agencies enforce regulations and policies to reduce asbestos exposure including the U.S. Occupational Safety and Hazard Administration (OSHA), U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (USCPS), and various agencies at the state level.
