Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring fibrous minerals, each with their own unique chemical and physical properties. These properties made asbestos a popular building material for over a century due to its strength, fire resistance, and insulating properties. Asbestos was widely used in the construction of homes, commercial buildings, and industrial plants, especially between the 1920s and 1990s. It remains a major cause of occupational cancer worldwide, threatening public health and the environment.

Correspondingly, asbestos poses a significant risk to public health, mainly when disturbed or damaged, releasing asbestos fibres into the air. The fibres can be inhaled, leading to the development of serious respiratory diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These conditions are often incurable and can lead to premature death.

Asbestos-containing materials are still prevalent in many buildings constructed before the 21st century, making it a significant health hazard. It is vital to identify and remove asbestos-containing materials appropriately to avoid exposure to hazardous fibres.