Asbestos is a natural mineral fibre that was widely used in construction, shipbuilding, and other industries up until the late 1990s. It has remarkable tensile strength, heat resistance, and fire-retardant properties, making it an ideal material for insulation, roofing, and fire protection.

However, asbestos also has detrimental health effects when inhaled or ingested. Once the fibres enter the lungs or digestive system, they can cause a range of respiratory diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These illnesses may take years or decades to develop, and there is no cure for them.

As asbestos-related diseases are preventable, the UK government has implemented strict regulations for the handling, removal, and disposal of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). It is essential to ensure that your property is free from ACMs or that they are appropriately managed to reduce the risk of fibre release.