Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in the construction industry until the 1980s. Its excellent insulation and fire-retardant properties made it an ideal material for various applications, including roofing, flooring, insulation, and pipe lagging.

However, after the discovery of the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, its usage has been drastically reduced. Asbestos is now classified as a Category 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

Asbestos fibers are not visible to the naked eye and can be inhaled easily, causing serious lung diseases even after a brief exposure. Therefore, it is crucial to identify and remove asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) from buildings and homes to prevent the risk of exposure.