Asbestos is a natural mineral that was valued for its heat resistance, strength, and durability. It was widely used in building materials such as cement, insulation, pipes, tiles, and roofing, as well as in industrial and automotive applications. However, it was discovered that asbestos fibers are hazardous to human health when they are inhaled or ingested. Asbestos can cause several lung diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, which is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.

The danger of asbestos lies in its microscopic fibers, which can be easily released into the air when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged. These fibers can linger in the air for hours, days, or even years, and can be inhaled or ingested by anyone who is nearby. That's why it's important to identify where asbestos is present in your building, what type of asbestos it is, and how to manage it safely.