EPA Issues Final Rule | Chrysotile Asbestos Is Banned

The Gap Between the Final Rule and a Total Asbestos Ban

The final rule pertains only to chrysotile asbestos. According to regulators, it is the only form of asbestos currently used or imported in the United States. But critics say the EPA may not have all the information, and regulators may be unaware of other uses.

The rule also fails to address legacy uses of the mineral. It does nothing to safeguard the public from asbestos building products in older homes and schools. But regulators are working to address this gap. The EPA has a risk evaluation underway for these types of asbestos materials. This same risk evaluation process ultimately led to the chrysotile ban.

Has the EPA Banned Asbestos?

No, the EPA has not yet fully banned asbestos in the United States. Chrysotile asbestos is banned, but the other types are not. And old asbestos products in existing structures are still permitted. But regulators are working toward a full ban, and lawmakers have signaled support for this effort.