05/10/2007
The U.S. Senate voted on 4 October to ban the import and use of asbestos, a fiber used in automobile brakes, roofing and other common products, because of its link to deadly diseases such as cancer. The Senate unanimously approved the legislation, which now goes to the House of Representatives. "Today 2,500 metric tons (of asbestos) are being imported every year in hair dryers, ceiling tiles, brake pads and other products", said Sen. Patty Murray, a Washington Democrat who has been pushing for the prohibition for seven years.

The government estimates that 10,000 Americans die annually from mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. About one-third of mesothelioma victims were exposed to asbestos while serving in the U.S. Navy or working at shipyards, according to experts.

The legislation notes that many people in the United States incorrectly believe that asbestos has been banned and that there is no risk of exposure through the use of new products. About half of the asbestos imported into the United States is used in roofing products. About one-quarter is found in coatings and 20 percent in other products.

According to the Commerce Department, the U.S. imports more than $100 million in brake parts per year. Some of those imports are from countries in which asbestos is poorly regulated, according to supporters of the legislation. The Senate bill included exceptions for the military and the space program, and the chlorine manufacturing and crushed stone industries.

The measure did not address a previously unsuccessful attempt in Congress to create a fund that would pay the injury claims of workers sickened by asbestos.

Source: Reuters