Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was widely used in building materials and products from the 1930s until the 1990s. Asbestos was admired for its strength, durability, heat resistance, and insulating properties. It was used in various forms, including cement, insulation, flooring, insulation boards, roofing, and many others.

However, asbestos is now known to be highly hazardous to human health. When asbestos fibers are disturbed or damaged, they can release into the air and be inhaled or ingested by people. Asbestos fibers can cause serious and potentially deadly health problems, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Therefore, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) must be managed and handled carefully to prevent any asbestos exposure. Asbestos surveys are a critical part of asbestos management plans, refurbishment, and demolition projects.