Asbestos is a hazardous substance that was widely used in the construction industry throughout the world until the late 1990s. It was used in buildings, including walls, ceilings and floors, as it was strong, durable and fire-resistant. In the 1980s, it was discovered that asbestos was incredibly dangerous and carcinogenic. It can cause lung cancer, asbestosis, mesothelioma and other fatal illnesses. Since the discovery, the use of asbestos in building and construction has been banned.