Asbestos may be part of any commercial or domestic building which was built or refurbished before the year 2000, as all forms of asbestos were banned by 1999.
There are three main types of asbestos, 'blue asbestos' (crocidolite), 'brown asbestos' (amosite) and 'white asbestos' (chrysotile). All of them are dangerous, but blue and brown asbestos are more hazardous than white. Blue asbestos, or crocidolite, is the most potent cause of mesothelioma.
Materials that contain asbestos are not generally considered to be harmful unless it is releasing fibers into the air where they can be inhaled or ingested.
Asbestos-containing materials such as ceiling tiles, floor tiles, intact laboratory cabinet tops, shingles, etc. will not release asbestos fibers unless they are disturbed. Asbestos ceiling tile, for example, if left alone and not disturbed, will not release asbestos.
Browse images of materials that represent some common places where asbestos can be found at Health and Safety Executive.
Know more information about asbestos health risks, safety information and regulatory issues, from the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
To find out more information on asbestos identification and control activities, contact the Asbestos Coordinator in the EPA Regional Office for your region, or your state or local health department.
Learn some asbestos safety facts and tips at National Safety Council.