Which of the following is a potential risk when handling asbestos during construction?

Health complications from exposure to asbestos are a significant risk during construction. Asbestos fibers, when disturbed, can become airborne and be inhaled, leading to serious respiratory issues and conditions, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. These health risks are well-documented, with long latency periods before symptoms appear, which compounds the danger as individuals may be unaware of the exposure until much later in life.

In the context of construction, safety protocols are crucial to limit exposure and protect workers. While issues such as fire hazards, structural weaknesses, or increased installation times may arise from various construction materials or methods, they do not have the same severe and long-term health implications that come with asbestos exposure. Therefore, recognizing and mitigating health risks associated with asbestos is of utmost importance in any construction project involving this hazardous material.