Asbestos is a fibrous mineral that was commonly used in construction materials between the 1950s and 1990s. It was popular for its fire-resistant and durable properties and was used for insulation, roofing, piping, tiling, and other building materials. Unfortunately, asbestos is also highly toxic and can cause serious health problems when it's disturbed, damaged, or worn down over time. Asbestos fibres can become airborne and easily inhaled, causing lung cancer, mesothelioma, and other respiratory diseases.

While asbestos is no longer used in modern construction, many buildings in the UK still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that were installed before they were banned. If you own or manage an older building, it's important to have an asbestos survey to find out if there is any asbestos present, and if so, how to manage or remove it safely.