Asbestos in Products and Buildings

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber, once widely used in building materials and products for its thermal insulating properties and fire resistance. Intact, undisturbed asbestos-containing materials generally do not pose a health risk. These materials may become hazardous and pose increased risk if they are damaged, are disturbed in some manner, or deteriorate over time and release asbestos fibers into building air.

A number of building materials and products still in use today contain asbestos. Asbestos remains in use as an acoustic insulator, and in thermal insulation, fire proofing, roofing, flooring and other materials. You can find a more complete list of past uses of asbestos.

EPA Asbestos Publications

Non-EPA Asbestos Publications

The following organizations publish asbestos guidance, standards and testing methods. These publications are available for a fee to the general public. Consult with the individual organization for the exact cost.

National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) - Asbestos Control Publications
Association for Standards and Testing Methods - Choose a topic from the "Select Search" box and enter "Asbestos" in the search box. - ASTM

Asbestos in Products and Buildings

Local Navigation