Before we dive into the importance of asbestos testing, let's first understand what asbestos is. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials throughout the 20th century. Asbestos fibers are strong, durable, and resistant to heat and chemicals, making it an ideal material for insulation, roofing, and other construction products.

However, decades of research have shown that prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can release microscopic fibers into the air when they are disturbed, such as during construction or demolition projects.