Before we go any further, let's define what asbestos is. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction between the 1950s and 1990s. It was valued for its heat-resistant properties and was used in building materials such as insulation, plaster, and cement.

However, asbestos has since been found to be highly dangerous to human health. When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, they release microscopic fibers into the air that can be inhaled into the lungs. Over time, these fibers can cause serious health problems, such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.