Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was commonly used in construction materials such as insulation, floor tiles, and roofing shingles. It was also used in the manufacturing of automobile parts, textiles, and other products. Asbestos can be found in a range of materials, but it is most commonly found in insulation and fire-resistant materials.

Asbestos poses a health risk when its fibers are released into the air and inhaled. These fibers can then become lodged in the lungs and other organs, leading to serious health problems such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. Asbestos exposure is also associated with other respiratory problems, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).