In Minnetonka and throughout Minnesota, many construction workers still question whether is asbestos still used in new construction. Essentially, because older buildings and some imported materials can still create exposure risks, while new projects do not intentionally use asbestos, Minnesota may still encounter traces when older structures are disturbed or when certain imported products contain contaminants, which underscores the importance of awareness. As the Schmidt & Salita Law Team, we remain committed to helping workers understand these risks.
Many local buildings were constructed decades ago, and asbestos can still be found in insulation, flooring, roofing, and mechanical systems. Even a simple repair can reveal hidden components, which is why ongoing training and clear communication remain essential on job sites across Minnesota.
Asbestos once appeared widely in American construction because it was affordable, durable, and heat-resistant. Many older Minnesota buildings still contain these materials in insulation, flooring, or hidden structural areas. When crews work on updates or demolition, disturbing these components can release fibers into the air.
Research from federal public health agencies shows more than 39,000 asbestos-related deaths occur annually in the United States, most often linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
Inhaled fibers may remain in the lungs for decades and gradually lead to respiratory illness. Workers handling renovation or demolition in older structures face the highest risks, since routine activity can unsettle hidden materials. Because symptoms often develop slowly, early medical evaluation is important when exposure is possible. Workers often do not experience symptoms immediately because asbestos-related diseases develop slowly over time, which makes early medical evaluation vital when exposure is suspected.
According to guidance shared by EPA, federal actions over several decades have reduced asbestos use in construction, and the 2024 chrysotile prohibition strengthened restrictions on remaining applications.
According to OSHA, national safety standards define exposure limits, training duties, respiratory protection, and work practices for anyone handling or disturbing asbestos on a job site.
Even with long-standing federal restrictions, asbestos use and regulatory discussions continue today. The SNUR process ensures outdated asbestos applications cannot return without EPA review, requiring oversight before any new industrial use is allowed.
Minnesota places strong emphasis on worker safety, and state agencies oversee the handling, removal, and disposal of asbestos in construction environments. The regulatory framework aims to prevent exposure by requiring trained personnel to evaluate structures before any work begins. These requirements help ensure that contractors do not unknowingly disturb hazardous materials and that appropriate safety precautions are in place whenever asbestos is identified.
The state also provides guidance to assist construction companies in recognizing potential asbestos-containing materials and understanding the responsibilities that accompany a renovation project. Awareness campaigns and mandatory certifications help reinforce safe practices and reduce the likelihood of workers being exposed to airborne fibers during routine job tasks.
State health data indicate that thousands of Minnesota structures built before 1980 still contain asbestos, increasing the likelihood of exposure during renovation.
Minnesota requires asbestos inspections before renovation or demolition to identify hidden ACM and ensure materials are handled safely.
Only licensed asbestos abatement contractors may remove or disturb ACM in Minnesota, and they must follow containment, disposal, and air monitoring protocols.
Workers must use wet methods, controlled removal techniques, and sealed containment to minimize fiber release when handling older materials.
Asbestos is no longer used intentionally in new construction in Minnesota or elsewhere in the United States; however, small amounts may still be present in certain imported materials from countries with less stringent safety oversight. When there is uncertainty about a product’s composition, reviewing the manufacturer’s documentation helps reduce the risk of accidental exposure.
Minnesota’s construction industry now relies on safer, reliable alternatives that provide insulation, fire resistance, and structural support without the risks associated with asbestos. These modern options enable contractors to move forward with confidence, meeting both state and federal safety requirements.
Asbestos exposure remains a concern for Minnesota construction workers, particularly when projects involve older buildings that may still contain the material. Disturbing aging insulation, tiles, or mechanical components can release microscopic fibers that are easy to inhale and difficult for the body to remove.
Once inside the lungs, these fibers can cause irritation and scarring that may slowly progress into serious illnesses. Because symptoms often take decades to appear, many workers are unaware of the effects until conditions become advanced. Regular medical monitoring can help detect early warning signs when someone has a history of exposure.
National public health data show more than 39,000 asbestos-related deaths occur annually in the United States, most commonly from conditions such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and chronic respiratory disease.
Minnesota crews frequently encounter older structures that predate asbestos regulations, meaning exposure risks may arise even during routine work. Following safety guidelines, using protective equipment, and ensuring proper containment can significantly lower the likelihood of harmful fiber release.
Workers exposed to asbestos during demolition or renovation may have claims under the Minnesota workers’ compensation law, and some circumstances allow for third-party actions when exposure results from defective products or unsafe job site practices.
The state also recognizes claims related to long-term illnesses associated with occupational asbestos exposure, giving workers several avenues to seek accountability and financial support.
Construction employees in Minnetonka facing asbestos exposure deserve trustworthy guidance and representation. Our team at Schmidt & Salita Law Team offers legal support to protect your rights and help you navigate the aftermath of workplace exposure.
Contact us at (952) 473-4530 to discuss your concerns and explore available options with our team.
Mary Beth Boyce is a dedicated personal injury and workers’ compensation attorney with over 12 years of experience advocating for injured individuals. A Rising Star recognized by Super Lawyers, she has successfully handled high-stakes cases, including multiple multi-million-dollar settlements in personal injury claims. Mary Beth is deeply committed to protecting first responders, working on legislation, and handling cases related to cancer, cardiac conditions, and mental health claims.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Dean M. Salita, with more than 30 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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