Asbestos is a mineral fiber that was once widely used in construction materials due to its strength and durability. However, it has since been discovered that asbestos is highly toxic and can cause a range of serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Although asbestos use has been banned in many countries, there are still many buildings that contain asbestos, especially those built before the 1980s. Asbestos can be found in a variety of materials, including insulation, ceiling tiles, flooring, and roofing.