Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibre which, due to its' properties, has been used in a number of building construction materials as an insulant and fire-retardant.
If asbestos becomes airborne, through disturbance of the material (i.e. cutting or natural wear and tear), the resulting particles can be inhaled and pose significant health risks to those exposed. The three major health effects are lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis.