Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials for insulation, fire-resistant coatings and in many other applications. Asbestos fibers can be inhaled or ingested, causing serious health problems such as asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma. The health risks associated with asbestos exposure are particularly high for people who have worked with or around the material, and for their family members who may have been exposed to asbestos through contact with their clothing or hair.

Asbestos-containing materials can be found in many types of buildings, including homes, schools, hospitals, and factories. Common construction materials that may contain asbestos include insulation, pipe wrapping, roofing materials, siding and floor tiles. If you suspect that your building contains asbestos, it is important to have a professional asbestos inspection performed to determine the scope and severity of the problem.