Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was once commonly used in building materials due to its durability, fire resistance, and insulation properties. However, asbestos fibers can become airborne and are easily inhaled, leading to severe respiratory diseases such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Asbestos exposure can occur in several ways, including:

• Disturbing asbestos materials during home renovations or demolition work
• Living in a building with asbestos-containing materials (ACMs)
• Working in a job that involves handling asbestos materials

Asbestos abatement refers to the process of identifying, assessing, and carefully removing asbestos-containing materials to reduce the risk of exposure. It is crucial to ensure that asbestos removal is done by a certified professional as improper handling can lead to further contamination and worsen the health risks associated with the material.