Why Regulate Asbestos?
Asbestos is a mineral that has been used in more than 3,000 different products over the last 100 years for its insulating, acoustical and fire protective properties. Common products that contain asbestos are pipe insulation, floor and ceiling tile, spray-on insulation, boiler wrap insulation and electrical appliances such as your toaster and hair dryer. Asbestos-containing materials are frequently encountered in a wide range of environments, including but not limited to, industrial and commercial facilities, schools and universities, and residential properties. Asbestos is actually the name of a group of minerals that share similar chemical and physical properties. The most common of these minerals are Chrysotile, Amosite, and Crocidolite. The primary characteristic that makes asbestos a reason for concern is its ability to separate into microscopic needle-like fibers. Once these fibers become airborne (usually by disturbing the product in which they are contained), they are easily inh
