Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and other industries until the late 20th century. Although it was valued for its resistance to heat, fire and chemicals, it was later discovered that exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Because of the dangers associated with asbestos, many countries have banned its use in new construction projects. However, many older buildings, including homes, schools and office buildings, still contain asbestos materials.

Asbestos can be found in a variety of products, including insulation, roofing materials, flooring, pipes and textured paints. When these materials are disturbed or damaged, they release asbestos fibers into the air, which can be inhaled and cause serious health problems.