Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry until the 1980s. It was highly regarded for its insulation and fire-resistant properties. However, it is now known to be highly hazardous. When disturbed or damaged, asbestos releases tiny fibres into the air that can be inhaled. This can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma. Asbestos is often found in older buildings, such as those built before the 1990s, and so it is vital that any suspect material is properly identified and removed by a qualified asbestos removal company.