Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials until the 1980s. It was valued for its heat-resistant and insulating properties, and it was used in everything from pipes and boilers to roofing tiles and insulation. However, it was later revealed that asbestos is a highly toxic substance that can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos fibres are very small and easily inhaled. Once theyre in the lungs, they can become lodged in the tissue and cause damage over time. The risk of developing an asbestos-related illness is highest for people who have been exposed to asbestos for prolonged periods, such as construction workers, but even a small amount of exposure can be dangerous.