Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals known for their durability, heat resistance, and insulation properties. It was commonly used in the construction, automotive, and shipbuilding industries. From insulation and roofing materials to floor tiles and adhesives, asbestos found its way into thousands of products because of its fire-resistant properties. However, as science progressed, the severe health hazards associated with asbestos exposure became widely recognized, leading to a push for regulations.
Health Risks of Asbestos
The dangers of asbestos lie in its fibers. When disturbed, asbestos releases tiny particles into the air. If inhaled, these fibers can become lodged in lung tissue, leading to serious health problems such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. There is no safe level of asbestos exposure, which is why removal and abatement by trained professionals, like YYC Asbestos Removal & Renovation, is essential.
Is Asbestos Still Used Today?
Asbestos Use Worldwide
While many countries have banned asbestos, its use is not fully prohibited worldwide. In fact, about 67 countries have implemented asbestos bans, including major nations such as Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Australia. However, some countries, such as Russia, China, and India, still use asbestos in certain products and industries.
In North America, both Canada and the United States have different approaches to asbestos regulation. Canada implemented a full ban on asbestos production, import, and export in 2018. The United States, however, has not completely banned asbestos. While its use is significantly restricted, certain types of asbestos products are still legally manufactured, imported, and sold in the U.S.
Canada’s Stance on Asbestos
Canada has a clear stance on asbestos: it’s banned. The federal government issued regulations in 2018, banning the import, sale, and use of asbestos, as well as products containing asbestos. Prior to the ban, Canada was one of the world’s largest asbestos exporters. Now, the focus has shifted to protecting public health and managing existing asbestos found in older buildings and materials.
For homeowners and businesses in Calgary, this ban means that new products and materials containing asbestos should no longer be entering the market. However, buildings constructed before the 1980s often contain asbestos in insulation, ceiling tiles, and other areas. For these structures, asbestos testing and abatement services provided by YYC Asbestos Removal & Renovation are essential to ensure safety.
To learn more about asbestos testing services in Calgary, you can click here.
The United States and Limited Asbestos Use
The U.S. does not have a complete ban on asbestos. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has placed stringent regulations on asbestos use, but certain asbestos-containing products are still allowed under specific conditions. Some products that may still contain asbestos in the U.S. include:
- Brake pads and linings
- Certain gaskets
- Cement sheets
- Roofing materials
The EPA has implemented policies such as the 1989 Asbestos Ban and Phase-Out Rule, and later the 2019 Risk Evaluation under the Toxic Substances Control Act. Although the 1989 rule was partially overturned, the government continues to restrict asbestos use heavily, and its application is carefully regulated.
Why is Asbestos Still a Concern Today?
Even though asbestos is banned in many parts of the world, existing structures that predate these bans often contain asbestos materials. Buildings, homes, and industrial properties constructed before the 1980s are likely to contain asbestos in insulation, drywall, floor tiles, and even ceiling paint. Renovations, demolitions, or even natural aging can disturb these materials, releasing asbestos fibers into the air.
For property owners in Calgary, dealing with asbestos often starts with a thorough asbestos inspection or testing, especially if you plan to renovate an older property. You can find more information about asbestos abatement services with YYC Asbestos Removal & Renovation by visiting this link.
The Importance of Asbestos Abatement and Removal
Asbestos abatement and removal are crucial for public health and safety, especially in older buildings that contain asbestos-based materials. Certified professionals, like the experts at YYC Asbestos Removal & Renovation, are trained in safe removal practices, ensuring that asbestos is handled and disposed of without risking contamination.
Asbestos removal is a delicate process that involves several steps, including containment, specialized equipment, and protective gear to prevent asbestos fibers from spreading. Attempting to remove asbestos on your own can lead to severe health risks. For safe and effective asbestos removal, it’s best to contact professionals who specialize in asbestos management.
For those in Calgary needing asbestos removal services, you can reach out to YYC Asbestos Removal & Renovation for a consultation by clicking here.
How Can You Tell if Asbestos is in Your Property?
If your property was built before the 1980s, there is a chance it may contain asbestos materials. However, asbestos is often mixed with other materials and cannot be identified by sight alone. Common places asbestos might be found include:
- Insulation materials
- Roofing and siding shingles
- Vinyl floor tiles
- Textured paint and patching compounds
- Pipe cement
The safest and most reliable way to determine if asbestos is present is through professional asbestos testing. At YYC Asbestos Removal & Renovation, our team provides comprehensive asbestos testing services to identify any materials in your property that may contain asbestos. You can learn more about our testing services here.
Steps You Can Take if You Suspect Asbestos
If you suspect asbestos in your home or property, follow these safety tips:
- Do Not Disturb Suspected Materials: Avoid touching, drilling, or moving materials you suspect contain asbestos.
- Contact Professionals: Reach out to certified asbestos testing and removal specialists, like YYC Asbestos Removal & Renovation, who can assess the situation and provide guidance on the next steps.
- Follow Recommended Actions: If testing confirms the presence of asbestos, the experts may recommend removal, encapsulation, or other abatement measures depending on the condition and location of the material.
Why Choose YYC Asbestos Removal & Renovation?
YYC Asbestos Removal & Renovation is a leading provider of asbestos management services in Calgary. With a dedicated team of certified professionals, we prioritize safety and adhere to industry standards for asbestos handling and removal. Our services include:
- Asbestos Testing: Determine the presence of asbestos materials in your property.
- Asbestos Abatement: Safely contain or remove asbestos to reduce exposure risks.
- Consultation and Support: Our knowledgeable team provides guidance throughout the testing and removal process, ensuring your property is safe and compliant with all regulations.
For more information on our asbestos abatement services, visit our asbestos abatement page.
Final Thoughts: Is Asbestos Still Used Today?
The short answer is that while asbestos is not as widely used today, it still poses a risk, especially in older buildings. The presence of asbestos in pre-1980 structures means that asbestos testing and abatement remain essential services for many homeowners and businesses. In countries like Canada, asbestos bans ensure that new asbestos products are not entering the market. However, the need for professional asbestos services has not diminished due to the presence of asbestos in existing materials.
YYC Asbestos Removal & Renovation is here to help Calgary residents navigate the complexities of asbestos testing, abatement, and removal. Whether you’re planning a renovation or concerned about potential asbestos exposure, our team can provide the support and expertise you need.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us here. Let YYC Asbestos Removal & Renovation help you create a safe, asbestos-free environment.