Which federal agency is responsible for regulating asbestos in the U.S.?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for regulating asbestos in the United States. This agency was established to protect human health and the environment by enforcing regulations related to environmental pollutants, including asbestos. The EPA plays a crucial role in monitoring and managing the risks associated with asbestos exposure, particularly in buildings and schools, by implementing guidelines and laws that limit its use and ensure proper handling and disposal.

The agency's Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) and the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) are important legislative frameworks through which the EPA regulates asbestos. Through these regulations, the EPA sets standards for asbestos testing and removal, ensuring that public safety is prioritized in environments where the substance might be present.

Other agencies, while they may address related aspects of workplace safety or health in broader contexts, do not have the primary regulatory authority over asbestos. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), for example, focuses on worker safety but does not have comprehensive control over environmental standards set by the EPA.