Asbestos is a mineral that was commonly used in the construction industry between the 1950s and 1980s. Because it is resistant to heat, it was used as an insulation material to line walls, boilers, and pipes. It was also used in the manufacture of flooring, roofing, cement, and decorative finishes.

Asbestos is incredibly dangerous when it is disrupted, as the fibers released into the air can be inhaled and cause severe respiratory problems. It's essential to identify where asbestos may be found in a building so it can be managed safely. Some common areas that may contain asbestos include:

• Pipe and boiler lagging
• Ceiling tiles
• Floor tiles and adhesives
• Insulation boards and blankets
• Artex coatings and textured coatings
• Cement roof sheets