Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were widely used in building and construction materials from the 1950s to the 1980s due to their properties of heat resistance, insulation, and durability. However, it was later discovered that prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can cause various serious health risks, such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Therefore, the use of asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, and there are strict regulations and guidelines for its management, removal, and disposal. Asbestos materials that are in good condition and not disturbed pose a low risk of fibers release. However, if the materials are damaged, friable, or disturbed, they need to be handled by professionals to avoid exposure.