Asbestos was commonly used in construction materials for many years due to its desirable properties such as fire resistance, durability, and insulation. In Florida, as in the rest of the United States, the use of asbestos in certain products started to decline in the late 1970s and was eventually restricted and banned in specific applications.
The key milestones related to asbestos regulations in the United States include:
Clean Air Act (1970):
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began regulating asbestos emissions from factories and other industrial sources.
Toxic Substances Control Act (1976):
The EPA gained additional authority to regulate asbestos-containing materials under this act. However, a comprehensive ban on asbestos was not implemented at this time.
Asbestos Ban and Phase-Out Rule (1989):
In 1989, the EPA issued a rule to ban most asbestos-containing products. However, this ban was overturned by the courts in 1991. As a result, certain asbestos-containing products remain legal in the U.S.
While the use of asbestos in new construction materials diminished over time, it is important to note that existing structures, including those in Florida, may still contain asbestos-containing materials. Common building materials that historically contained asbestos include:
Insulation:
Asbestos was widely used in various forms of insulation, including pipe insulation, attic insulation, and spray-applied fireproofing.
Flooring:
Vinyl floor tiles and the adhesive used to install them sometimes contained asbestos.
Ceiling Tiles:
Asbestos was used in some acoustic and drop ceiling tiles.
Roofing Materials:
Some roofing materials, such as shingles and felt, may have contained asbestos.
Cement Products:
Asbestos was added to cement products for reinforcement.
Textured Paints and Coatings:
Asbestos was used in coatings and in some textured paints.
It’s important to approach older buildings with caution, especially during renovations or demolitions, as asbestos-containing materials may be present. If you suspect the presence of asbestos, it is recommended to consult with professionals for testing and, if necessary, proper abatement procedures. Additionally, local regulations and guidelines may influence asbestos-related practices in specific regions, so it’s crucial to be aware of any state or local requirements.