The snow in 1939 s classic the wizard of oz was made of the dangerous carcinogen white asbestos

The Snow in 1939’s Classic The Wizard of Oz was Made of the Dangerous Carcinogen White Asbestos

When we think of the iconic film The Wizard of Oz, many memorable scenes come to mind, including Dorothy’s journey along the Yellow Brick Road, encounters with the Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion, and, of course, the magical snowfall created by Glinda, the Good Witch of the North. However, what many people may not know is that the snow used in this beloved 1939 classic was made of the dangerous carcinogen white asbestos.

According to an article published by MovieWeb, the snow effect in The Wizard of Oz was achieved by using a type of asbestos called white asbestos or chrysotile. Asbestos was commonly used in the early 20th century for its fire-resistant properties and ability to create a snow-like effect when crushed into fine particles. Unfortunately, it was later discovered that white asbestos posed significant health risks, including causing cancer and other respiratory diseases.

The use of white asbestos in the production of The Wizard of Oz was not an isolated incident. During that time, asbestos was widely used in various industries, including filmmaking, construction, and manufacturing. It was only in later years that the harmful effects of asbestos on human health became well-known, leading to its ban in many countries.

It’s important to note that the asbestos used in the snowfall scenes was in its non-friable form, meaning it was bound together and less likely to release asbestos fibers into the air. Nonetheless, exposure to any form of asbestos carries certain risks, especially when considering the prolonged exposure experienced by the cast and crew during the filming of The Wizard of Oz.

While the use of white asbestos in The Wizard of Oz may be surprising, it serves as a reminder of the era’s lack of knowledge regarding the dangers associated with this material. Today, the use of asbestos is strictly regulated or banned in many countries due to its harmful effects.

In conclusion, the snow in 1939’s classic The Wizard of Oz was indeed made of the dangerous carcinogen white asbestos. Although the risks associated with asbestos exposure were not fully understood at the time, it serves as a reminder of the importance of continually improving our understanding of materials and prioritizing the health and safety of those involved in the production of films and other industries.

Source: MovieWeb - The Wizard of Oz Snow Was Asbestos