Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used extensively in the construction industry from the 1950s to the 1990s. It was valued for its durability, fire resistance, and insulation properties. However, it was discovered that exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are still present in many buildings today, particularly those built before 2000. This means that if your building is undergoing renovation or demolition, you may be at risk of exposure to asbestos.