Asbestos Containing Building Materials Fact Sheet Asbestos is a
general name for a group of six naturally-occurring minerals
composed of small fibrous crystals. Because of its insulating
properties, its fire resistance, and it strength, asbestos was
commonly used in many building materials until the late 1970's.
Various diseases have been associated with industrial inhalation
exposure to asbestos fibers, and the extensive use of asbestos
in building materials has raised some concern about exposure in
non-industrial settings. The presence of asbestos in a building
does not mean that the health of building occupants is
endangered. As long as asbestos-containing materials remain in
good condition and are not disturbed or damaged, exposure is
unlikely. However, damaged, deteriorated, or disturbed asbestos-
containing materials can lead to fiber release and the potential
for exposure, and unauthorized removal or disturbance of
asbestos containing materials is not allowed; it is potentially
unhealthy and it is also