Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring silicate minerals that are uniquely resistant to heat, fire, and chemicals. For many years, asbestos was used in a variety of construction and insulation materials such as insulation, ceiling tiles, and cement products because of its remarkable properties. However, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure became widely known in the 1970s, and the use of asbestos in the construction industry has since been banned in many countries.

Exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious respiratory illnesses such as lung cancer and mesothelioma, which is why proper disposal of asbestos waste is crucial.