Do we still have any asbestos in our national manufacturing in this day and age – good question! After the terrible lung diseases discovered to be directly caused by this otherwise brilliant product, one may be surprised to discover that it is indeed still found in these products . . . ceiling tiles; floor tiles; insulation wadding; roofing shingles; spray coatings and . . . most amazingly of all, talcum powder.
However, asbestos is still considered to be most prevelant in the manufacture of fire proofing and fire resistant products as it is naturally resistant to flames. It was extensively used in the manufacture of asbestos cloth, fire blocking and safety gear. Because of this unique capability, some of these asbestos containing items are actively produced today.
Sadly one of the other tragic effects of the 9/11 attacks on the world trade centre in New York in 2001 was the asbestos dust released into the air during the massive relief operation – the first responders and individuals were directly exposed and many folk later developed asbestos associated illnesses.