The first documented death was in 1906. However, asbestos continued to be used in various manufacturing and construction materials well into the 1970s. Many have been criticizing the U.S. government and the asbestos industry for many years for ignoring the dangers by continuing to expose employees to asbestos exposure risks. Court documents from the 1970s show the asbestos industry had been aware of the risks since the Great Depression.
In fact, due largely to court challenges, asbestos is not officially banned in the United States. However, its use in consumer products has declined drastically. This is largely because of the threat of litigation. Historically, products containing asbestos include:
Drywall and joint compound
Floor tiles
Roofing materials
Industrial and marine gaskets
Brake pads
Thermal pipe insulation
HVAC ducts and other air-conditioning and heating material