"<p><strong>WHAT IS ASBESTOS?<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction due to its heat resistance, durability,<br>and insulating properties. It can be found in older buildings, particularly in materials such as insulation (pipe<br>insulation, attic insulation), flooring (vinyl tiles, adhesives), ceiling tiles, roofing materials, cement boards, drywall,<br>and fireproofing products.<br>When asbestos fibers are disturbed and become airborne, they can be inhaled, leading to serious health risks.<br>Exposure to asbestos is linked to several life-threatening diseases, including asbestosis (a chronic lung condition),<br>lung cancer, and mesothelioma (a rare cancer of the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart). Other respiratory<br>issues, such as pleural disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can also result from prolonged<br>exposure. Proper handling and removal of asbestos require professional expertise to prevent harmful fiber release.<br>Anyone at risk of asbestos exposure is at risk of developing serious and chronic health problems. In fact, no safe<br>level of minimum exposure has ever been established for asbestos.<br>Exposure to asbestos may occur when working in construction-related activities such as demolition and asbestos<br>abatement, or when workers are engaged in a wide variety of activities associated with building maintenance and<br>repairs. Asbestos fibers can remain in the air for several hours, this means there is a long-time frame in which one<br>can be exposed to asbestos if materials are improperly handled or disturbed.<\/p>"