The inhalative intake of Asbestos fibers is now viewed worldwide as a grave health risk. In many countries there are limits for the maximum permissible fiber exposures, as a consequence of the experiences made with Asbestos. For particular types of Asbestos, particularly amphibole Asbestos (with crocidolite and amosite as the most hazardous forms), there is a general prohibition of manufacturing and use. In some countries these limitations on manufacturing and use are expected to be applied to all Asbestos forms, whereby some countries like the USA play an exemplary role.

With regard to the oral intake of Asbestos fibers and the resulting hazard, there is no clarity at present. Limits are implaced only in a few countries.