Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials in the UK until the late 1990s. It was valued for its heat resistance, durability, and cost-effectiveness, and was commonly added to insulation, cement, floor tiles, roofing, and other products. However, it is now known that asbestos can cause serious health problems when its fibres are inhaled or swallowed. Asbestos exposure can lead to lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other respiratory diseases. Therefore, it's essential to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) properly.