Asbestos Exposure in the U.S.: Trends, Statistics, and Industry Hotspots

Asbestos exposure remains a serious health risk in the United States. Despite its ban in many products and reduced usage over the years, asbestos still exists in older buildings, industrial materials, and specific work environments. This article explores national trends, key statistics, and the industries and regions where asbestos exposure continues to be a concern. Data from the CDC, EPA, and OSHA highlight the ongoing challenges in managing and preventing exposure.

What Is Asbestos and Why Is It Dangerous?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once praised for its heat resistance, strength, and insulating properties. It was commonly used in construction, shipbuilding, and automotive parts. The danger lies in the tiny fibers that can become airborne when disturbed. When inhaled, these fibers can lodge in the lungs, leading to diseases such as:

• Asbestosis
• Mesothelioma
• Lung cancer
• Other chronic respiratory conditions

These illnesses often develop years after exposure, making asbestos a long-term hazard even after use has declined.

Decline in Use, But Not in Risk

The EPA began regulating asbestos in the late 1970s, and since then, its use has dropped significantly. However, the material is still not fully banned in the U.S. It remains in some older products and buildings. Many workers continue to encounter asbestos during demolition, renovation, or maintenance of older facilities.

According to OSHA, about 1.3 million workers in construction and general industry face significant asbestos exposure on the job each year.

Top Industries with Ongoing Exposure

While asbestos is not used as widely today, certain industries still present higher exposure risks:

1. Construction and Demolition
   Many older commercial and residential buildings still contain asbestos. Workers in renovation and demolition projects often disturb these materials. Roofing, flooring, insulation, and ceiling panels are common sources.
2. Shipbuilding and Maritime Work
   Ships built before the 1980s often used asbestos in insulation and engine rooms. Maritime workers may be exposed during repairs or dismantling of older vessels.
3. Manufacturing
   Although usage has declined, some older manufacturing plants still have asbestos in equipment, gaskets, and piping. Maintenance crews are at risk during repairs.
4. Automotive Repair
   Older brake pads, clutches, and gaskets may contain asbestos. Mechanics working on vintage or imported vehicles can still be exposed.
5. Oil Refineries and Chemical Plants
   Asbestos was widely used to insulate high-temperature equipment. Maintenance and shutdown activities in these plants remain high-risk.

Geographic Hotspots for Asbestos Exposure

Data from the CDC and EPA point to certain regions where asbestos exposure is more common. These areas often have a history of heavy industrial or mining activity.

• Libby, Montana: Known for vermiculite mining contaminated with asbestos. The EPA declared it a public health emergency.
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: High rates of mesothelioma due to old infrastructure and shipyard work.
• Los Angeles, California: Large numbers of older buildings and industrial zones with lingering asbestos hazards.
• New York City, New York: Historic buildings and past manufacturing increase exposure risks, especially for maintenance workers.
• Houston, Texas: Petrochemical industry contributes to higher exposure rates in refineries and processing plants.

National Statistics and Health Trends

According to the CDC:

• About 2,500 to 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma in the U.S. each year.
• The disease mostly affects people over 60, reflecting past occupational exposure.
• Men account for about 80% of mesothelioma cases, due to higher representation in high-risk jobs.

While cases have declined slightly, the long latency period means that new cases are still being reported decades after initial exposure.

OSHA Enforcement and Monitoring

OSHA plays a key role in protecting workers from asbestos. The agency requires employers to:

• Identify materials that may contain asbestos
• Conduct air monitoring in suspect environments
• Provide proper training and PPE
• Limit exposure through engineering controls

Workplace inspections and enforcement actions continue across the country, especially in construction and demolition projects.

EPA Actions and Site Cleanups

The EPA is responsible for cleaning up contaminated sites through the Superfund program. Over 80 Superfund sites across the U.S. are contaminated with asbestos.

Examples include:

• Libby Asbestos Site (Montana)
• Ambler Asbestos Piles (Pennsylvania)
• South Bay Asbestos Area (California)

These cleanups involve soil removal, containment, and long-term monitoring to protect communities from exposure.

Asbestos in Schools and Public Buildings

Many schools and public buildings built before the 1980s still contain asbestos. The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) requires schools to inspect for asbestos and manage it properly.

Despite regulations, many districts lack funding for full abatement. As a result, teachers, maintenance workers, and students remain at some risk, especially during renovation projects.

Awareness and Worker Protection Programs

Several programs aim to increase awareness and reduce exposure risks:

• NIOSH Asbestos Research: Continues studying long-term health effects and workplace exposures.
• State-Level Programs: States like California and Washington have strict asbestos safety rules.
• Union Safety Training: Construction unions often provide asbestos hazard training to members.

Public awareness remains vital in helping at-risk workers understand the hazards and demand safe working conditions.

Conclusion

Asbestos exposure in the U.S. has declined, but it has not disappeared. Millions of workers still face risks in construction, manufacturing, shipyards, and other industrial sectors. Geographic hotspots and legacy buildings keep the hazard alive.

With strong enforcement, ongoing training, and public awareness, exposure risks can be reduced. But the need for caution remains—asbestos-related illnesses are preventable, yet often permanent. Recognizing the industries and areas most at risk is the first step in protecting workers and communities from this invisible threat.