Asbestos is a fibrous material that was widely used in construction during the 1970s and 1980s. It was commonly used as a building material due to its heat-resistant properties, and it was incorporated into various building products, such as insulation, flooring, roofing, and cement. When such materials are disturbed, asbestos fibers can be released into the surrounding air, where they can be inhaled and cause serious damage to the lungs.

Asbestos-related diseases can take years, even decades, to manifest themselves. This is why it's crucial to conduct an asbestos survey before any work is carried out on a building. An asbestos survey will identify any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that are present in the building and in what condition they are. The survey report will then outline the appropriate management plan for any ACMs found.