Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in the construction industry due to its heat-resistant properties. It was used in a variety of different materials, including insulation, cement, and roofing. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibres could cause serious health problems when inhaled.

Asbestos fibres can become lodged in the lungs, leading to health problems such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. These diseases can take years or even decades to develop, meaning that people who were exposed to asbestos in the past may not even know that they've been affected.

Asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, but many buildings constructed prior to this date may still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). That's why it's important to get your building tested for asbestos if it was built before 2000.