Asbestos is a mineral fiber that occurs naturally in rocky deposits around the world. It was once a commonly used material in different industries, including construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding, due to its unique properties. Asbestos fibers are very strong, fire-resistant, and flexible, and can insulate against heat, electrical current, and sound.

However, asbestos is also a dangerous substance that can cause serious health issues when inhaled. Asbestos fibers can lodge in the lungs and cause scarring, inflammation, and tumors. These health issues may not show up for years or even decades after exposure, making asbestos exposure a silent killer.

Most buildings constructed before the 1980s contain asbestos materials, including insulation, floor tiles, shingles, siding, and cement products. If these materials are disturbed or damaged during renovation or maintenance work, asbestos fibers can get released into the air and pose a risk to workers and occupants.