Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials due to its high resistance to heat, fire, and chemicals. As such, it was used in a wide variety of products, including insulation, roofing, floor tiles, and cement products. It's now illegal to use asbestos in the UK, but many buildings still contain asbestos, particularly those built before 2000.

It's important to be aware of the risks associated with asbestos, as exposure can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Asbestos fibres are invisible to the naked eye and can easily become airborne, which means that they can be inhaled without knowing. This is why it's important to conduct an asbestos survey before any demolition or refurbishment work takes place.