The EPA report has brought attention to the serious risks posed by legacy uses of asbestos in building materials. While most types of asbestos have been phased out for decades, they can still be found in buildings constructed before 1978 and in trace amounts in products like talc. Last month, the EPA made a historic decision to ban all ongoing uses of chrysotile asbestos, the only type of asbestos still imported and used in the United States.
The report emphasizes that all types of asbestos pose an unreasonable risk to human health, even when not disturbed. It highlights the importance of properly managing asbestos-containing materials to prevent exposure and protect human health. However, further efforts are needed to address legacy uses of asbestos and protect individuals from potential harm. The ban on chrysotile asbestos is a step towards reducing these risks, but more work needs to be done to ensure that everyone is safe from this toxic substance.