Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is resistant to heat, fire, and chemical damage. It was widely used in the construction industry from the 1950s to the 1980s, primarily as insulation and fireproofing material.

Asbestos-containing materials can be found in many different parts of a building, including:

• Roofing and siding materials
• Ceiling tiles and decorative plaster
• Insulation around boilers, pipes, and ductwork
• Flooring tiles and adhesive
• Textured paint and coatings

When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, they can release small fibers into the air. These fibers can be inhaled and can cause serious, long-term health problems, including:

• Asbestosis: a scarring of the lungs that can cause breathing difficulties
• Mesothelioma: a rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart
• Lung cancer: a cancer that develops in the lung tissue

The risk of developing these diseases is highest for people who have been exposed to high levels of asbestos for extended periods, such as construction workers, shipyard workers, and those who work in older buildings.