Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were commonly used in construction for their insulating and fire-resistant properties. However, it was later discovered that asbestos is highly hazardous to human health and can lead to a number of diseases, including asbestosis and mesothelioma.

Even though asbestos is no longer used in construction, many older homes and buildings still contain materials that may contain asbestos. It is important to identify and remove these materials to ensure the safety of those living or working in the building.