As an industrial hygiene and hazardous materials consultancy, we often encounter misconceptions about asbestos—why it was used, where it can be found, and why it remains a serious concern today. While asbestos was once hailed as a “miracle mineral” due to its durability and resistance to heat and chemicals, its legacy is now one of strict regulation and severe health risks. Understanding the history of asbestos helps businesses and safety professionals make informed decisions about managing this hazardous material in the workplace.
Why Was Asbestos Used?
For centuries, asbestos was valued for its unique properties. It is naturally resistant to fire, heat, and corrosion, making it a sought-after material in various industries. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, asbestos became a staple in construction, shipbuilding, automotive manufacturing, and industrial applications.
Key reasons for its widespread use included:
- Fire Resistance – Used in insulation, fireproofing materials, and protective gear.
- Durability – Strengthened cement, roofing, and flooring products.
- Thermal Insulation – Found in boilers, pipes, and HVAC systems.
- Affordability – A cost-effective solution for industries requiring high-performance materials.
Where Was Asbestos Commonly Found?
In Canada, asbestos was heavily used in buildings and infrastructure throughout the 20th century.
Even today, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can still be found in:
- Older Homes and Buildings (Pre-1990) – Insulation, ceiling tiles, and flooring.
- Industrial Facilities – Pipe insulation, boilers, and cement products.
- Automotive Parts – Brake pads, clutches, and gaskets.
- Shipyards – Heat-resistant coatings and insulation.
- Mining and Manufacturing – Canadian mines once led global asbestos production.
The Turning Point: Why Asbestos Became a Hazard
Despite its many industrial benefits, the health risks of asbestos exposure became evident by the mid-20th century. Workers in mining, construction, and manufacturing started developing severe respiratory diseases linked to asbestos fiber inhalation. Scientific studies and workplace illness reports revealed the dangers of long-term asbestos exposure, leading to growing concerns and eventual regulation.
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
As industrial hygienists, we emphasize the critical dangers of airborne asbestos fibers. When disturbed, asbestos releases microscopic fibers that can be inhaled, embedding themselves in lung tissue and causing serious illnesses, including:
- Mesothelioma – A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs and abdomen.
- Asbestosis – A chronic lung disease that causes scarring and breathing difficulties.
- Lung Cancer – A well-documented consequence of prolonged asbestos exposure.
- Pleural Thickening – A condition that restricts lung function and causes chest pain.
Regulations and the Phase-Out of Asbestos in Canada
By the late 20th century, global awareness of asbestos hazards led to strict regulations. Canada, once one of the world’s leading asbestos producers, implemented sweeping asbestos bans and workplace safety measures.
Key regulatory milestones include:
- 1980s-1990s – Phasing out asbestos in construction materials.
- 2018 – Canada’s federal ban on asbestos manufacturing, import, and use.
- Present Day – Stringent regulations under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and provincial OHS laws.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Workers and Businesses from Asbestos Risks
The history of asbestos serves as a reminder that workplace safety evolves with scientific knowledge. While asbestos was once a trusted material, its long-term health effects have made strict management essential. If your business operates in an older building or industry with asbestos concerns, proactive assessment and compliance are key to worker safety and legal protection.
Need an asbestos assessment or compliance guidance? Contact our team today to ensure a safe and asbestos-free workplace.
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