Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral which was widely used in construction materials throughout the UK until the late 1990s. Although it has since been banned, many buildings still contain asbestos products such as insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, and roofing materials. The danger lies in the fact that when these materials become damaged or disturbed, microscopic asbestos fibres can be released into the air. These fibres can then be breathed in, causing long-term health problems such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.