The basic definition of asbestos is a light grey or white fibrous material. It is a combination of several different minerals that when separated into long flexible fibers become extremely dangerous. There are actually 4 different colors and each have their own individual characteristics. The colors are blue, brown, white and green. Each color determines what and how many different minerals are in that particular color. For example, the green substance is that color because of the iron is at a much higher level than the other colors and types.
It was primarily used as a fire retardant as asbestos will not burn. It was also used to protect against heat. Some of the best examples of where you can potentially find asbestos is in insulation that exists in older buildings and homes. It can also be found in many other different areas within a property such as ceiling tiles and siding. With that being said, it is extremely necessary to test for asbestos if a commercial building or residential property that is older is being renovated.
Asbestos was legally banned in the United States back in 1978 and it is well known that the fibrous strands can be deadly. Asbestos fibers or dust can be inhaled once it is exposed through abrasion or other processes. A good example of how asbestos can be exposed is through the demolition of an older or historic properties where the substance was used prior to the banning of it. Unfortunately, a person that has been exposed to this type of substance may not have symptoms for up to decades before they realize that they have any related disease. That really explains why the litigation was the longest and most expensive tort or civil act in U.S. history.
The deadly related illnesses are lung cancer and mesothelioma. These diseases are caused when the tiny asbestos fibers are inhaled. The illnesses really escalated in the 1900’s and primarily around the 1920-1930 era. By the late 80’s and 90’s, asbestos regulations where extremely strict and totally phased out or outright banned in most countries. 
The first process that needs to be completed in abatement situation is the testing. The testing process is quite extensive and can take some time before the actual test results are provided. There are several different testing methods to find asbestos and it depends on the substance that you are testing that will determine which test to do. The most common test that is used to detect the substance is the PCM or Phase Contrast Microscopy. This test is mostly done on site where an abatement project is to be completed.
In the abatement or removal process, it is extremely important that you hire a reliable and certified professional removal company. They must carry the Nevada Asbestos Removal license better known as the A-23 license in order to perform abatement jobs. That license will ensure that the individual or company will have had a minimum of 4 years experience within the past 10 years performing abatement. A locally owned and operated company here in Las Vegas that has over 30 years of experience is Las Vegas Environmental Pros and they are always highly recommended for both asbestos testing and abatement.
Knowing all of the details about this highly dangerous material is truly important. If there is an older building or residential property that could potentially have asbestos containing products within them, it is crucial that you perform a professional asbestos test and start the abatement process. You can find additional information here.