Asbestos in Older Homes and Renovation Projects
Why asbestos in older materials becomes a greater concern when it is damaged or disturbed during repair, renovation, or demolition.
Asbestos was used in many building materials during the twentieth century, which means older homes and buildings may still contain asbestos-containing materials. Public-health guidance makes an important distinction: intact material that is properly managed does not automatically create an immediate hazard, but damaged or disturbed material can release fibers into the air. EPA
Why renovation changes the risk picture
Cutting, drilling, sanding, scraping, demolition, and removal can disturb asbestos-containing materials and make airborne exposure more likely. OSHA specifically regulates asbestos in construction and renovation settings because these activities can create significant exposure without proper controls. OSHA
Older buildings still matter
CDC notes that people can still be exposed to asbestos in older buildings and in some consumer products, even though use declined after peaking in the 1970s. CDC