Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry from the 1950s to the 1990s. It was prized for its heat resistance, durability, and low cost. Asbestos can be found in many building materials, such as:

• Roofing and siding sheets
• Insulation boards and pipes
• Floor tiles and adhesives
• Textured coatings and plasters
• Ceiling tiles and panels
• Gaskets and seals
• Brake linings and clutch facings

When asbestos-containing materials are damaged, deteriorated, or disturbed, they release microscopic fibers into the air. These fibers can be inhaled and lodged in the lungs and other organs, causing serious and sometimes fatal diseases, such as:

• Asbestosis, a scarring of the lung tissue that can lead to breathing difficulties and heart failure
• Mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the chest or abdomen that has no cure
• Lung cancer, a malignant tumor that can spread to other parts of the body and cause death

Therefore, it is essential to identify and manage asbestos in buildings to prevent exposure and minimize risks.