Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once used extensively in the construction industry due to its fire resistance and insulation properties. However, it has since been discovered that exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious health issues, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were commonly used in the construction of buildings before the 1990s, including in ceilings, flooring, insulation, and roofing. It can be difficult to determine if a material contains asbestos simply by looking at it, which is why professional asbestos testing is necessary.