Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in a wide range of building materials due to its heat resistance and durability. It was widely used between the 1950s and 1980s, but its use was largely phased out in the UK by the mid-1990s due to health concerns.

When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, they can release fibers into the air that can be inhaled, leading to serious health issues. These fibers can cause long-term health problems, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.