Asbestos has been used to make various products since the 1900s, but its peak use was between 1950 and 1975. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of microscopic fibers. It was considered to be an ideal material to work with because not only is it pliable and soft like cotton, but it is durable and resistant to heat and friction.

Because of it cloth-like qualities, asbestos can be easily woven into fireproof protection garments for firefighters or other professionals who are exposed to high heat. And because of its strength and durability, it was used in a variety of industrial, maritime, automotive and building products.

Following is a list of some common asbestos-containing products:

• Building products : Roofing, shingles, flooring, cement siding, asphalt floor tiles, vinyl floor tiles, vinyl wall coverings, textured paint or coatings and decorative plaster
• Insulation : Thermal proofing for pipes, boilers, and electrical products; electrical wiring insulation and internal insulation in incinerators
• Automotive products: T hermal insulation and exhaust manifolds, break linings and clutch pads, the internal lining of fume hoods and exhaust ducts
• Industrial products : Emergency generators, welding blankets and screens, fire dampers, fire stop flaps and cooling towers
• Home appliances: Portable heaters, portable dishwashers, gas–fired decorative logs, wood-burning stoves and fireplaces, coffee pots, irons, toasters, popcorn poppers, crock pots and handheld hairdryers
• Textiles, cloth products: Fireproof protective gear for firefighters, protective cloth covering, gloves, protective blankets, yarn and cords

It wasn't until the 1970s that researchers discovered the harmful effects of asbestos exposure. Although the use of asbestos is strictly regulated today, many older products still contain the toxic material.

When Asbestos is Harmful

Asbestos is not harmful in its natural state. It becomes a threat to one's health when the strand of fibers is broken down or disturbed and the fibers are separated. The loose fibers form a dust that can be easily inhaled. If inhaled, the fibers can accumulate in the lungs, stomach or heart.

After a period of time, exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to the development of asbestos-related disease such as mesothelioma, asbestosis or lung cancer.