Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used extensively in construction and building materials until the late 20th century. It was prized for its strength, durability, and fire-resistant properties. However, it was later discovered that prolonged exposure to asbestos fibres can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can be found in a wide range of products, including flooring, roofing, insulation, electrical panels, pipes, and more. If these materials become damaged or disturbed, they can release dangerous asbestos fibres into the air, which can then be inhaled.