Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral with fiber-like properties that make it ideal for various applications, such as insulation, roofing, cement, textiles, and cosmetics. Unfortunately, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can cause severe respiratory diseases, including cancer, and there's no safe level of exposure.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are prevalent in older structures, such as residential homes, commercial buildings, schools, hospitals, and factories. Examples of ACMs include:

• Asbestos cement sheets and pipes
• Asbestos insulation boards and sprayed coatings
• Asbestos floor tiles and adhesives
• Asbestos textiles and felts
• Asbestos gaskets and packing

Removing and disposing of these materials requires careful planning and execution to ensure the safety of workers, occupants, and the environment.