The cancer-causing agent asbestos recently returned to the headlines after residents living in a government-owned block of flats at Mount Butler were notified of inspections for the harmful substance, reportedly the first time in five years.
Residents have expressed concern for their health, although a government spokesman said the asbestos at the property was "sealed/encased in concealed locations which are normally out of reach by occupants and so its existence poses no health risk".
In February, similar asbestos-affected blocks on Borrett Road were demolished without proper safety precautions, and residents were concerned about the demolition work's proximity to schools and several kindergartens.
According to the US National Cancer Institute, asbestos is a group of minerals that occur naturally in the environment as bundles of fibres that can be separated into thin, durable threads.
These fibres, which do not conduct electricity, are resistant to heat, fire and chemicals.
As such, asbestos has been used widely in many industries, from construction to cars - and even in making some children's crayons.
