Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials throughout the 20th century due to its durability, insulation properties, and fire resistance. However, we now know that asbestos fibers are harmful to human health when inhaled, leading to the development of serious respiratory illnesses such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.

While asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, many older buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), particularly those constructed before the 1980s. If you suspect that your building may contain asbestos, it's essential to have a building survey conducted to determine whether removal is necessary to protect the health of occupants.