4. Clarify the asbestos definition to address contamination in vermiculite and other minerals

The Libby vermiculite situation should be considered an important lesson, but not be treated as a typical case. The definition of “asbestos” should be clarified to include all asbestiform amphiboles, in addition to currently regulated amphiboles and chrysotile. An evaluation by EPA, OSHA and MSHA will be needed to determine procedurally how this should be accomplished, and what consequences such a clarification might have, if any, on other industries.

Courtesy of U.S. Environmental Protection Agency