There was a time years ago when asbestos was one of the most commonly used items in construction. For decades, everything from hospitals to schools to various businesses was built with asbestos in the walls and throughout the entire structure. Only years later did the dangers of asbestos becomes apparent and then the substance was eliminated from us by companies like Asbestos Professionals LLC . 

Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral known for its heat resistance and fireproofing properties, was extensively used in various industries, including Hollywoods movie industry, for much of the 20th century. Its fire-retardant qualities made it a popular choice for construction, set design, and even costumes in the film and television industry. 

However, as the health hazards associated with asbestos became apparent, its use in Hollywood, like in many other industries, declined. But looking back now, it is shocking and surprising to see just how many ways Hollywood used asbestos for just about everything for decades . 

Set Construction

As anyone knows, a movie cannot be made without a plethora of sets. These sets are built to look like farmhouses, spaceships, old west saloons, and so much more. Without them, the movie business would grind to a halt. 

One of the primary ways asbestos was used in Hollywood was in the construction of these special sets. Studios aimed to create fire-resistant environments to ensure the safety of cast and crew, which was an admirable cause of course. 

Because of that, asbestos-containing materials, such as cement sheets, were used for walls, ceilings, and even props. The resistance to heat and flames made it an ideal choice for creating realistic yet safe sets, particularly for scenes involving fire or explosions . It is estimated that during the 1930s, 40s, and 50s, many of the movies that we have seen were filled with asbestos behind every single wall. 

Fireproofing

Not only was asbestos used in sets, but it was also used as a substance that could actually stop fires. 

Since its inception, asbestos has been valued for its fireproofing properties, and it was often applied as insulation to protect soundstages and equipment from the risk of fire. There were multiple ways that this was done. For instance, sprayed asbestos insulation, which is commonly Known as popcorn asbestos, was often used to cover walls and ceilings. 

The application of asbestos promised to provide a strong barrier against the spread of any sort of fire and contributed to the safety protocols in the industry.

Soundproofing

Not only did asbestos stop fires, but it was also used to stop sounds from leaking through the walls too. 

The material was often used as a way to soundproof sets in major Hollywood studios for years. 

The minerals soft and fiber-like nature was relied upon because it could absorb sound and reduce echoes, as well as create a more controlled audio environment. This was particularly important for creating high-quality audio recordings in studios. Whether it be recording dialogue during a take or making a soundtrack in a studio, asbestos was often used to keep sound in check. 

Costumes and Wardrobe

Believe it or not, asbestos also found its way into Hollywood costumes and wardrobe items, especially in the mid-20th century. 

There were in fact many costumes that were created to be fire-resistant, and asbestos fibers were incorporated into fabrics to achieve this. This was particularly common in costumes for stunt performers and actors involved in scenes with fire or pyrotechnics.

Special Effects

Asbestos was also sometimes used in special effects within the film industry. Smoke and dust effects were created by spreading fine asbestos particles, which would simulate realistic environments for scenes that featured events like explosions or crumbling buildings. 

However, as the health risks associated with asbestos became more widely known, safer alternatives were sought for these effects.

Props and Set Decorations

Asbestos was used in various props and set decorations for its fire-resistant qualities.

For instance, fake snow on winter sets often contained a lot of asbestos to make it flame-resistant. At the same time, asbestos was also used in materials that were part of constructing specific props if they needed to withstand heat or flames during filming.

The Shift Away from Asbestos

In the second half of the 20th century, overall awareness of the health risks posed by asbestos increased significantly and there was a national push to completely eliminate it. 

After many medical studies, asbestos was linked to serious respiratory diseases, such as lung cancer and mesothelioma. Hollywood, like all  other industries, started to reconsider the use of asbestos and then began to prioritize the health and safety of its workers.

Governmental agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration created and enforced much stricter guidelines regarding asbestos use. 

Following that, Hollywood studios started getting rid of asbestos-containing materials in all sorts of construction, set design, and costumes. The general move away from asbestos sped up as safer alternatives became available and the potential legal problems associated with asbestos diseases rose. Within just a few decades, asbestos was removed from Hollywood sets as well as businesses, schools, hospitals, and more. 

These days, the use of asbestos in Hollywood is pretty much completely eliminated. However, it is estimated that about 20% of buildings in the US still have some trace amounts of asbestos. Tough regulations along with a deeper and more concrete understanding of the health risks that come with the substance have led the industry to use alternative materials and practices that prioritize the well-being of those working in the entertainment business.

Final Thoughts

Asbestos was once a widely used material in Hollywood and beyond for its fireproofing and heat-resistant properties. It found its way into set construction, costumes, props, and various other aspects of film and television production. 

As mentioned, as the health hazards of asbestos became known, the industry took on some significant shifts away from its use. Stricter rules and a more profound awareness of many health risks pushed Hollywood to prioritize different choices and safe alternatives, which all ensured the general well-being of anyone involved in the entertainment industry.