Until the mid-1970’s asbestos was widely used in thousands of different products throughout the world. In the late 70’s federal action banned the use of asbestos in many products, but contrary to popular belief there is no official ban prohibiting the use of asbestos entirely. Today exposure to asbestos is rare and most people that are exposed to asbestos are involved in the removal process or encounter the material in older fixtures like insulation or old electrical fittings.

Most people who are affected by mesothelioma or asbestosis were exposed to asbestos through occupational of workplace exposure. Certain occupations are more prone to asbestos exposure than others. Construction workers, power plant workers, railroad workers, and shipyard workers are thought to be the highest risk of exposure; however, asbestos exposure is not limited to these occupations.

Studies have shown that about 80% of structures erected prior to 1980 used asbestos in some form in their construction. The unparalleled ability of asbestos to provide superior insulation against temperature extremes made it one of the most commonly used materials in shipyards around the world.

The insulating and fire retardant properties of asbestos made the product a common choice for use in all types of building materials. Asbestos was often used in the production of ceiling and wall tiles. Asbestos was also commonly used to make roofing and flooring materials like shingles and floor tiles. Asbestos was used in several different types of cements, spackles, and other patching materials for increased strength.

Those who worked to produce asbestos or in the application of these materials may be at an increased risk of asbestos exposure and in time mesothelioma.