Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry in the UK until the late 20th century. It was popular for its heat-resistant properties and was commonly used in insulation materials, roofing, and cement products.

However, asbestos has been proven to cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Exposure to asbestos occurs when materials containing the mineral are disturbed, releasing fine asbestos fibers into the air. These fibers are easily breathed in and can remain in the lungs for years, causing the aforementioned health problems.