Asbestos is a harmful substance linked to various health conditions. If you have too much exposure to it, you could face serious health problems in the future. While it takes a while after exposure to see any issues, the government has stepped in to help prevent problems by banning the substance. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry, the government began banning asbestos in the 1970s when it was linked to health problems in those who had been exposed to it. However, asbestos is still present in some things that you could be around in Illinois.
The most common places where you will find the substance include brake pads, roofing materials, clutches in vehicles and corrugated sheeting. It may also be present in imported materials, such as cement pipe. It also is found in nature. Typically, it is in underground rocks, so exposure is very limited except in professions that would disrupt these pockets. Also, it is not readily found in nature in this state, but it is in Virginia, California and New Jersey.
Even though it was banned for use in the 1970s, that does not mean it is not still around. Buildings and homes built before 1975 did not have the restrictions on using it. This means your home could have asbestos in it. Usually, though, it is not a concern unless you break the materials down and release the substance into the air. So, a good rule of thumb when working on a building that used materials made prior to 1975 is to have it checked for asbestos prior to any work. This information is for education. It is not legal advice.
