Asbestos is a mineral that was used in the construction of several buildings in the UK between the 1950s and the 1980s. It was valued for its heat resistance, strength and insulation properties. However, it was discovered that asbestos fibres can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma and other serious illnesses when inhaled.

The use of asbestos in construction materials was banned in the UK in 1999, but many buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials, particularly those constructed during the above-mentioned period. It is estimated that over 5000 people in the UK die every year due to asbestos-related diseases, making it crucial to take asbestos testing seriously.