Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is made up of six different types of fibrous minerals. These fibers can be very small and may not be visible to the naked eye. When inhaled, these fibers can cling to the lining of the lungs and cause scarring, leading to respiratory illnesses such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.

Asbestos has been used in a variety of materials, including roofing tiles, insulation, flooring, and pipes. Unfortunately, many buildings built before the 1980s in Trotton are likely to contain asbestos, which presents a significant risk to those living or working in these buildings.