Asbestos

Abstract

Few substances have created as much interest, fear, and misunderstanding as asbestos. In 1971, asbestos became the first material to be regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. In 1982, lawsuits filed on behalf of workers suffering from asbestos-related pulmonary disease led one asbestos products producer to file for bankruptcy, primarily as a result of claims for asbestos injury from asbestos products his company produced. Even as of the 21st century, controversies exist concerning the toxicity and potential health effects of asbestos. © 2008 Springer New York.