Asbestos Lawyers
Government Regulation of Asbestos
The first scientific studies suggesting a link between asbestos and lung disease were conducted in the early 20th century. Over the decades, the medical case against all forms of asbestos became stronger and stronger. Despite this, companies continued to build products with the materials, often failing to provide even basic safety precautions for employees.
Clearly, the government needed to step in. Our nation has laws about work environments and consumer safety that were clearly not being followed. Yet it took decades for the government to begin regulating asbestos in any way, and many feel the current regulations are still not enough.
The asbestos lawyers of Williams Kherkher have been fighting for mesothelioma and asbestos victims for over twenty-five years. Contact us at 800-781-3955 to learn more about asbestos and the law.
Gradual Changes in Law
The current government regulations of asbestos use and manufacturing were developed step by step. A brief timeline shows how these laws grew over time:
- 1970: The Clean Air Act imposes limits on the amount of asbestos fibers that can be released into the air by manufacturers.
- 1977: The US Consumer Product Safety Commission bans the use of asbestos in wallpaper patching compounds and gas fireplaces because its fibers could easily be released into the air when these products were used.
- 1979: Electric hairdryer manufacturers voluntarily stop using asbestos in their products.
- 1989: The Environmental Protection Agency bans all new uses of asbestos. School districts are also required to remove or encase asbestos found in their schools.
- 2000: Crayon manufacturers agree to stop using asbestos in their products.
Total Bans: the Debate Goes On
Countries such as Australia, France, New Zealand, and Brazil have banned the importation or use of asbestos products. There are many proponents for a similar ban in the US, but there are also many people who object to this idea. As long as the product is cheap, fire-resistant, and durable, it will have many fans who do not worry much about the dangers involved.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been injured by asbestos exposure, contact asbestos lawyers Williams Kherkher at 800-781-3955.
