Asbestos is a group of minerals that occur naturally as bundles of fibers. Its unique properties, such as high tensile strength, heat resistance, and durability, made it a popular building material during the 20th century. Asbestos was widely used in the construction industry for insulation, roofing, flooring, and other purposes until its health hazards were discovered.

Asbestos is composed of microscopic fibers that can easily become airborne when disturbed. When inhaled, the fibers can lodge in the lungs and cause serious health problems, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. That's why it's crucial to identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in your building and make sure they're properly managed, removed, and disposed of.