Asbestos was extensively used in building construction from the 1930s to the 1970s. In the mid-1970s, after exposure to asbestos was linked to certain types of cancer, the use of asbestos was discontinued in almost all building-related applications. It most commonly was used to insulate pipes and boilers. However, asbestos was also often mixed in with stucco, plaster, cement, wallboard, ceiling and floor tiles, acoustical tile, asphalt roofing shingles and tile, vinyl tiles, fireproof textiles, wallpapers, grouts and caulking compounds as a binder and fireproofing material. Asbestos abatement by removal means that asbestos-containing materials are totally removed from the building. A common example of this would be the removal of asbestos pipe wrapping and insulation from heating pipes. The most obvious advantage of this type of asbestos abatement is that once it is gone, the need for further monitoring or maintenance of the asbestos-containing materials is eliminated. Asbestos-related problems in older buildings should be addressed in a rational manner. Ignoring the potential problems of asbestos is irresponsible, but careless and hasty removal without proper safety precautions is also irresponsible, and can lead to even greater problems. The best course of action is to identify asbestos-containing materials in your building, ascertain their condition and then develop an abatement plan that addresses any hazardous or potentially hazardous conditions in a deliberate and responsible manner