Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing industries for its heat-resistant and insulating properties. Asbestos was commonly used in insulation materials, roofing shingles, flooring tiles, and some types of cement. However, over time, it became apparent that asbestos was a dangerous material, capable of causing serious health problems.

Asbestos fibers, when released into the air, can be inhaled, and become lodged in the lungs, causing serious health problems such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. For this reason, any materials suspected of containing asbestos requires careful handling and testing.