Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry throughout the 20th century. It was prized for its heat resistant properties, which made it ideal for insulation, roofing, and other building materials.

However, it was later discovered that asbestos exposure can lead to serious health problems, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. As a result, the use of asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999.

Despite the ban, many buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). These materials can pose a health risk if disturbed, which is why it's so important to have an asbestos survey before carrying out any refurbishment or demolition work.