Asbestos was a common building material in the 20th century due to its fire-resistant properties and durability. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can cause serious health problems such as lung cancer and asbestosis. Asbestos is dangerous because it can easily break down into small fibers that can become airborne and inhaled. These fibers then become lodged in the lungs, leading to a range of respiratory problems.

Asbestos can be found in a wide range of building materials, including insulation, pipes, flooring, and ceiling tiles. Because asbestos was commonly used in buildings up until the 1980s, many older buildings in Burlow may still contain asbestos.