Asbestos is a hazardous material that was widely used in the construction industry until the 1980s. It was known for its durability, fire-resistance, and insulation properties, and could be found in many building materials, such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and siding. However, it was also found to cause severe health issues, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Due to its widespread use, asbestos is still present in many buildings today, especially older ones. That's why it's essential to manage asbestos properly, especially in buildings that are being refurbished or demolished. The first step in managing asbestos is to conduct an asbestos survey.