The U.S.A: Safe and responsible use of chrysotile asbestos from policy and legislative framework

In respect of exploitation, chrysotile exploitation has been prohibited since 2002 but the import activities and use of the chrysotile-containing products have continued. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the United States imported and consumed about 820 metric tons of chrysotile asbestos in the first 7 months of 2010 and this figure was further increased in the following years.

In respect of import, the United States has mainly imported chrysotile from Canada to be mostly used in the US Army for manufacturing of fire-proof aircrafts, airplanes and weapons. It had been also used in construction of the trade towers before 1980. In addition, the roofing products also account for about 72% of the consumed chrysotile asbestos.

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