The Asbestos “Ban” That Isn’t
Why You Still Need to Check It Before You Wreck It
First of all, let’s get one thing straight:
This is not an asbestos ban.
It’s a chrysotile ban.
That’s important—because chrysotile is just one form of asbestos. Other types like amosite, crocidolite, tremolite? Still out there. Still not banned. So before we start popping the champagne, let’s take a breath.
Sure, the Biden-Harris Administration made headlines in March 2024 for “banning asbestos.” And to be fair, it was historic—it marked the first chemical ban finalized under the updated Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), banning the import and use of chrysotile asbestos, which has been the last type still in use in the U.S.
It’s a solid step in the right direction. But it’s not the finish line.
So What Did the Ban Actually Do?
Here’s the skinny:
- It bans new use of chrysotile asbestos in things like brake pads, gaskets, and chlorine production.
- It phases out remaining industrial uses over 5–12 years depending on the industry.
- It does not ban all asbestos.
- It does not remove or address the asbestos already lurking in buildings across the country.
- And here’s the kicker — the EPA is already reviewing whether parts of the ban went “too far.”
That’s right. According to a June 2025 AP report, the EPA told a federal court that it would reevaluate the rule “to see if it went beyond what was necessary” and if just requiring tighter workplace protections would’ve done the trick instead.
So… Can You Rely on This “Ban” to Keep You Safe?
If you are thinking this means your home or job site is magically asbestos-free now, let me stop you right there. Here’s why that’s wishful thinking:
- This only bans future imports/use of one type of asbestos. It doesn’t address the millions of homes, schools, hospitals, and factories built with asbestos decades ago.
- Not everyone follows the rules. You think every product gets tested? Every supplier tells the truth? Libby, Montana, ring a bell? They knew the vermiculite was contaminated with asbestos and sold it anyway. That’s the reality.
- Asbestos can show up naturally. It’s in rocks and soil, and sometimes it ends up in products without anyone realizing—at least until it’s too late.
- Mistakes happen. Materials get mislabeled. Contractors skip the test. Or worse, they skip the test on purpose to save a buck.
What Can You Do to Stay Safe?
Here’s the part you can control:
Follow the law. Under federal regulations, building owners must have a “thorough inspection” for asbestos-containing materials before any renovation or demolition. Doesn’t matter how old the building is. Doesn’t matter what your buddy says.
You don’t get a free pass because of a press release.
If you’re a homeowner, a contractor, a property manager, or just someone who cares about not breathing in cancer dust—you have to check it.
Not “probably.”
Not “I think we’re good.”
Check. It.
The Bottom Line:
We should be celebrating a full ban on all asbestos. But we’re not there yet. So until then…
- Don’t assume you’re safe just because the news said “ban.”
- Don’t trust that others are doing the right thing.
- Don’t cut into that wall, floor, or pipe until you know what’s in it.
Because the only surefire way to protect your health, your team, and your family?