Since what year has asbestos been banned from use?

The banning of asbestos usage primarily took place in 1978, when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued regulations prohibiting the use of certain asbestos-containing products, particularly in building materials. This step was crucial due to the health risks associated with asbestos, including lung disease and cancers such as mesothelioma. The ban in 1978 specifically targeted products like spray-on insulation and some types of flooring felt, reflecting increasing awareness and concern regarding its serious health impacts.

Notably, while there have been additional regulations and restrictions on asbestos usage since then, the key legislative action that effectively banned many uses of asbestos occurred in 1978. Understanding this timeline is important for real estate professionals, especially when dealing with properties built before this date, as they may still contain asbestos materials and require specialized handling and remediation practices.