Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials in the UK until it was banned in 1999. It was popular because of its fire-resistant properties, durability and affordability.

However, asbestos has been proven to be highly hazardous to human health. When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, they release microscopic fibres that can be inhaled into the lungs, leading to serious health conditions such as mesothelioma and lung cancer.