Which of the following is a key indicator of asbestos presence in buildings?

The presence of asbestos in buildings is often assessed by examining the condition of materials. When materials are in good condition, they may not pose a risk for asbestos exposure; however, deterioration, damage, or wear can lead to the release of asbestos fibers into the air. This deterioration can occur due to various factors like age, environmental conditions, or mechanical damage, indicating a potential hazard that needs to be assessed.

While the age of roofing materials, the type of insulation used, and energy efficiency of the building can provide context about potential asbestos use, they are not definitive indicators of its presence. For instance, older buildings may use asbestos-containing materials, but without evaluating their condition, one cannot ascertain the risk. Conversely, newer materials may be energy efficient and not contain asbestos at all. Thus, assessing the condition is crucial since it directly correlates with the potential risk of exposure to asbestos fibers.