Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing industries due to its heat and fire-resistant properties. It was particularly popular in the UK from the 1950s to the 1980s, and as a result, many buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs).

However, asbestos is now known to be extremely hazardous to human health, causing a range of lung diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. It is particularly dangerous when its fibres become airborne, which is why the proper management and removal of ACMs are essential.