Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in building materials up until the late 1990s. It is a strong and durable material that is resistant to heat, fire, and chemicals. However, asbestos fibers can be easily released into the air when the material is disturbed, which can be extremely hazardous to human health when inhaled.

Asbestos is known to cause several health issues, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. Because of its harmful effects, asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, but many buildings constructed before this time still contain asbestos-containing materials.