Asbestos is a natural mineral that was widely used in the construction industry until the 1980s. It was valued for its high tensile strength, resistance to heat and fire, and affordability. Asbestos was used in a variety of materials, including cement, insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, roofing shingles, and more.

However, asbestos has been linked to several serious health conditions, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, they release tiny fibres into the air, which can be inhaled by people nearby. These fibres can lodge in the lungs and cause damage over time.