Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials from the 1950s until the late 1990s. It was prized for its durability and heat resistance, and was used in everything from insulation and roofing to flooring and ceiling tiles.

Unfortunately, asbestos is also highly toxic, and exposure to the mineral fibers can cause serious illness and even death. Asbestos is now banned in many countries, but there are still countless buildings and structures that contain the material. That's why it's crucial to have regular asbestos surveys and management plans to ensure that workers and residents are not exposed to this dangerous substance.