Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry until the late 20th century. It was valued for its fire-retardant properties, strength, and insulation capabilities. However, it was later discovered that prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are still present in many buildings constructed before 2000. This includes residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. ACMs can be found in:

• Insulation materials (such as pipe insulation and ceiling tiles)
• Floor tiles
• Roofing materials
• Textured coatings (such as Artex)
• Cement products (such as corrugated roofing sheets)

Damaged ACMs are especially hazardous as they release asbestos fibers into the air, which can then be inhaled by anyone nearby. That's why it's essential to have any asbestos-containing materials removed and disposed of by a licensed professional.