Posted on April 1, 2023
On April 17th, the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) submitted significant comments addressing the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Notice of Data Availability (NODA) to ban asbestos imports and use.
The EPA NODA docket is filled with industry comments in hopes of delaying the inevitable — an asbestos ban on imports and use. ADAO’s comments not only discuss why we need a total ban, but verify that chlor-alkali companies already have, or are in the process of, converting their manufacturing plants over to alternative non-asbestos technologies This is concrete evidence that their work can be done safely, economically, and sustainable environmentally.
The Facts Are Irrefutable.
- Asbestos is a well-known carcinogen
- There is no safe or controlled use of asbestos
- Over 40,000 Americans die each year from asbestos-related diseases
ADAO is not alone in its efforts. Allies such as the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), Safer Chemical, Health Families, and Arthur Frank, MD; Raja Flores, MD; and Barry Castleman, ScD, also submitted comments to support the asbestos ban.
ADAO’s research confirms that OxyChem is now the only chlor-alkali company importing and using asbestos, despite the availability of safer, more cost-effective, non-asbestos technology. Unfortunately, some companies, such as OxyChem, prioritize profits over public health by importing large amounts of raw chrysotile asbestos.
ADAO’s research indicates that only one chlor-alkali company, OxyChem, continues to import and use asbestos, despite the availability of safer, more cost-effective alternatives. Since the EPA began implementing the Lautenberg Chemical Safety Act in 2016, the chlor-alkali industry has been the sole importer of raw chrysotile asbestos. The EPA is currently accepting public comments on additional data received after the proposed final rule public comment period.
In April 2022, the EPA proposed a rule to ban the ongoing use of chrysotile asbestos, which is the only known form of asbestos currently imported into the U.S. The proposed ban would protect people from the unreasonable risk to human health from chrysotile asbestos found in products such as asbestos diaphragms, sheet gaskets, brake blocks, aftermarket automotive brakes/linings, other vehicle friction products, and other gaskets.
ADAO and its allies will continue to advocate for a comprehensive ban on asbestos imports and use while encouraging readers to stay informed on this vital issue.
Linda Reinstein
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