Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were widely used in the construction and manufacturing industries between the 1950s and 1990s. Asbestos was popular because of its fire-resistant, insulating, and soundproofing properties. However, exposure to airborne asbestos fibers can cause fatal respiratory diseases like lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

That's why asbestos regulations and safety protocols are in place to protect workers, occupants, and the environment from asbestos exposure. Asbestos is categorized into three main types: blue asbestos (crocidolite), brown asbestos (amosite), and white asbestos (chrysotile). All three types are dangerous, but blue and brown asbestos are more hazardous.