Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is commonly used in the construction industry due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, asbestos is extremely hazardous to human health and can lead to serious health conditions when inhaled, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos was commonly used in building materials before it was officially banned in the 1990s. This means that many homes and buildings constructed before this time may contain asbestos-containing materials. It is crucial to identify and remove any asbestos-containing materials to reduce the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres.