Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used in a variety of building materials and products from the 1950s to the mid-1980s. It was prized for its strength, durability, and fire-resistant qualities, making it a popular building material. Unfortunately, asbestos is also highly toxic and can cause serious health problems when its fibers are inhaled.

Asbestos fibers are small, light, and invisible to the naked eye. When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, the fibers can become airborne and be inhaled into the lungs. Over time, asbestos exposure can lead to serious health problems such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.