Asbestos was widely used in the UK until it was banned in 1999 due to its hazardous health effects. However, asbestos-containing materials can still be found in many buildings constructed before this time, including homes, workplaces, and public buildings such as schools and hospitals. Asbestos fibers are highly friable, meaning they are easily released into the air when disturbed, and can be inhaled, leading to serious health risks.

Asbestos-containing materials are not necessarily dangerous if they are intact and undisturbed; however, if they are damaged or disturbed, such as during building or renovation work, they can release fibres into the air which can easily be inhaled. For instance, drilling, sanding, cutting, and sawing materials that contain asbestos can result in the inhalation of the fibres, which can be deadly. That is why it is essential to have your property tested for asbestos before undertaking any renovations, as well as conducting periodic testing of your buildings materials to ensure they have not become degraded and dangerous over time.