Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction, insulation, and other industrial applications for many years. Due to its excellent fire resistance and insulating properties, asbestos was considered an ideal material for many applications.

However, over time, it has become clear that asbestos is a highly hazardous material that can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Exposure to asbestos fibers can occur when the material is damaged or disturbed, releasing microscopic fibers that can be inhaled and cause harm to the lungs.