Asbestos is a heat-resistant and durable mineral that was widely used in construction materials such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and adhesives until the late 1990s. However, when these materials are disturbed or damaged, they release asbestos fibers into the air, which can be inhaled or ingested by people nearby. Once inside the body, these fibers can cause serious health problems that may take years or even decades to manifest.

Asbestos exposure has been linked to various diseases, including:

• Asbestosis: a chronic lung disease that causes scarring of the lung tissue, leading to breathing difficulties and chest pain.

• Lung cancer: a malignant tumor that develops in the lungs, usually caused by smoking and asbestos exposure.

• Mesothelioma: a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, usually caused by asbestos exposure.

These diseases can have severe consequences for those affected, including disability, loss of income, and premature death. That is why it is essential to identify and remove any ACMs in your building to ensure the safety of everyone who lives or works there.