Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials such as insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, and roofing materials due to its high resistance to heat and flame-retardant properties. However, it was later discovered that asbestos exposure can lead to serious health complications, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), asbestos is responsible for around 5,000 deaths per year, making it the single biggest cause of work-related deaths in the UK. This is why it is crucial to have any asbestos-containing material in your building surveyed and removed by a certified asbestos removal company.