Asbestos is well recognized as a health
hazard and is highly regulated. An estimated 1.3 million employees in the construction
and general industry face significant asbestos exposure on the job.
Heaviest exposures occur in the construction industry, particularly during the
removal of asbestos during renovation or demolition. Employees are also likely
to be exposed during the manufacture of asbestos products (such as textiles, friction
products, insulation, and other building materials) and during automotive brake
and clutch repair work.