The United States has regulated asbestos since the 1970s but did not finalize a comprehensive ban on chrysotile asbestos until 2024. Legacy asbestos — products installed before regulations took effect — remains in millions of homes, schools, and commercial buildings. Workers in demolition, renovation, and maintenance remain at risk today.
Regulatory Timeline
| Year | Regulation | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1971 | OSHA asbestos standard | First federal workplace exposure limits |
| 1973 | EPA Clean Air Act NESHAP | Regulated asbestos emissions |
| 1986 | AHERA | Required asbestos inspections in schools |
| 1989 | EPA partial ban | Banned most products; overturned 1991 |
| 2016 | Lautenberg Chemical Safety Act | Renewed EPA authority |
| 2024 | EPA chrysotile ban finalized | Phased-in ban on last remaining type |
What the 2024 Ban Does NOT Cover
- Legacy asbestos in existing buildings
- Five other asbestos types in legacy products
- Enforcement of import restrictions remains a challenge