Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in many building materials such as insulation, shingles, floor tiles, and ceiling tiles. Asbestos was considered an ideal material for building construction and industrial use due to its strength, insulation properties, and resistance to fire and chemicals.

However, it was later discovered that long-term exposure to asbestos can have serious health implications, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. As a result, asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999.