Environmental Health Administration Air Quality Division Compliance and Enforcement Branch Asbestos Abatement Program Asbestos Fact Sheet What is Asbestos? Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring silicate minerals that separate into thin but strong fibers. Asbestos is a non-combustible, excellent insulator with a very high tensile strength. It is durable, flexible and resistant to wear. Six asbestos minerals were commonly used commercially- chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, anthophylite, tremolite and actinolite How does asbestos harm people? Asbestos undamaged may cause no threat. It is when asbestos containing material is disturbed that they release tiny asbestos fibers. These fibers enter the body through inhalation or ingestion. What are the health effects of asbestos? Asbestos exposure is attributed to the development of lung cancer, asbestosis, mesothelioma and gastrointestinal cancer. What do I do if I suspect that there is asbestos in my home? Do NOT disturb it. If the material is relatively intact it may pose no serious threat.