Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials until the 1980s. It was popular because of its heat-resistant properties, which made it ideal for insulation, fireproofing and soundproofing. However, it was discovered that exposure to asbestos fibres could lead to a variety of health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Asbestos becomes dangerous when it is disturbed and the fibres become airborne. This can happen during the renovation or demolition of a building that contains asbestos, or even during routine maintenance work. This is why it is essential to have any asbestos-containing material removed by a professional if it is damaged or deteriorating.