Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry until the late 20th century. It was valued for its remarkable properties such as fire resistance, strength, and insulation. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were used in everything from insulation, roofing, flooring, and even decorative finishes.

However, its extensive use came with a significant cost. Asbestos is a highly toxic material that can cause serious lung diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. When asbestos fibers are breathed in, they become trapped in the lungs, where they can cause inflammation, scarring, and tumors.

Moreover, asbestos is not easily detected by the naked eye, and it can be present in building materials for years without showing any visible signs. Therefore, it is essential to have your building surveyed by a licensed asbestos surveyor to determine whether your building contains any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).