Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral that was commonly used in building materials before the 1980s. It was valued for its strength, durability, insulation properties, and fire-resistance. However, it was later discovered that asbestos can pose a serious health risk when its fibers are inhaled for a prolonged period. These fibers can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other asbestos-related diseases.

If your building was constructed before the 1990s, there's a high chance that it contains asbestos. Some common building materials that may contain asbestos include pipes, insulation, shingles, roofing materials, floor tiles, cement board, and more. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that any renovations, demolitions, or maintenance work on older buildings be done by professionals who are trained to handle asbestos.