Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in building materials for its fire resistance and insulating properties. It appeared in products such as insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, and cement.
When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, microscopic fibres become airborne. Inhaling these fibres can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
Asbestos can be present in walls, floors, ceilings, pipes, and ductwork. A qualified professional should inspect and test your building to identify any asbestos-containing materials. Where asbestos is found, proper management, removal, and disposal procedures must be followed to minimise health risks.