Asbestos is a fibrous material that occurs naturally in the earth. There are six different types but they are all contained within the same family due to their crystal fibres which are now known to be extremely dangerous to the lungs when inhaled, often causing fatal illnesses including lung cancer, asbestosis, mesothelioma and pleural plaques. The main types are generally classified into white, blue and brown asbestos. White asbestos is called Chrysotile, found in serpentine rocks, which are common in California. Brown and blue asbestos were less popular in use as they are not as flexible as white asbestos which can be woven easier. Blue and brown asbestos forms are both commonly found in Africa. These forms of asbestos were used commonly in the past due to asbestos’ heat and fire resistant properties, hence its name coming from the Greek meaning inextinguishable. Asbestos has been banned in the EU but other countries still mine asbestos and some unfortunately still use it in building materials due to its relative inexpensive cost.