Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber that was once hailed as a miracle material due to its strength, durability, and resistance to heat and corrosion. However, it was later discovered that asbestos is a toxic substance that can cause serious health problems when its fibers are inhaled. These include lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma, a rare and deadly form of cancer.

Asbestos was widely used in the construction industry in the UK from the late 1800s until the 1990s, when it was finally banned due to its health risks. However, millions of buildings in the UK still contain asbestos, especially those constructed before 2000. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can be found in various building components, such as insulation, floor tiles, ceiling tiles, roofing, and pipes.