Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials throughout the 20th century due to its heat-resistant properties. It was commonly used in insulation, roofing, and fireproofing products. However, it is now widely known that asbestos is a carcinogen and can cause serious health problems if inhaled. Asbestos exposure can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory diseases.

Asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, but many buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). If you own or manage a building, it's crucial to know whether it contains any ACMs and, if so, to manage them properly to prevent exposure.