Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was heavily used in construction and manufacturing throughout the 20th century. It was prized for its strength, durability, and heat resistance. However, as it became clear that asbestos exposure was linked to a range of health conditions including mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis the use of asbestos was gradually phased out.

Even though the use of asbestos in new construction is now banned in many countries, it still exists in many older buildings, particularly those built before the 1980s. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) include insulation, roofing materials, floor tiles, and textured paint, to name just a few.

The danger with asbestos is that it is composed of tiny fibers that can easily become airborne when ACMs are disturbed. When these fibers are inhaled, they become trapped in the lungs and over time can cause chronic respiratory conditions and even cancer.