Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in many industrial and commercial applications due to its heat-resistant properties. Unfortunately, it has been linked to serious health problems, including cancer. The term 'abater' refers to someone who removes or reduces the presence of asbestos in a building or other structure. The term 'abated' refers to the process of reducing or eliminating the presence of asbestos. Both terms are commonly used in the context of asbestos abatement, which is the process of removing or reducing the presence of asbestos in a building or other structure.