Which material requires extreme caution during cutting or handling due to health risks?

Asbestos requires extreme caution during cutting or handling because it poses significant health risks. When asbestos fibers are disturbed, they can become airborne and inhaled, leading to serious health issues such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma—conditions that may not appear until years after the initial exposure. This risk is primarily due to the fine, fibrous nature of asbestos and its resilience. Unlike materials such as fiberglass, rubber, or polyethylene, which also require some safety precautions, the danger associated with asbestos is uniquely severe and longstanding, making it essential that workers use proper protective equipment and follow strict safety protocols when working with or around this material.