Asbestos was widely used in construction materials in the past, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, it was later discovered that exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems, particularly lung cancer and mesothelioma.

It is now a banned substance in many countries, including the UK, and should only be removed and disposed of by licensed professionals. Failure to dispose of asbestos properly can result in hefty fines and potentially serious health problems.