Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was widely used in building materials throughout the 20th century, due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, it has been found to be highly harmful to human health, causing various types of lung disease such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

The use of asbestos in building materials was banned in the UK in 1999, but any building constructed before this date may contain asbestos.