Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) were used widely throughout the U.S. for their durability and unique heat-resistant qualities. But ACM manufacturers hid the truth about the dangers of asbestos for years.<\/strong><\/p>\n Once the dangers of asbestos<\/a> began to be more widely understood, federal, state, local authorities, and other regulatory agencies have spent decades attempting to control asbestos use and limit exposure to the toxic material. However, these asbestos regulations are complicated, and this naturally occurring mineral still poses health risks to people today.<\/p>\n Not everyone believed asbestos was safe. As early as the 1930s, health authorities were warning Americans that asbestos was a carcinogen and exposure to its fibers would cause diseases such as mesothelioma<\/a> and asbestosis.<\/p>\n