Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was commonly used in the construction industry up until the 1980s. It was valued for its heat-resistant properties, which made it an excellent insulation material for roofs, walls, and pipes. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibers could be released into the air when disturbed, causing serious respiratory illnesses.

The asbestos fibers are tiny and invisible to the naked eye. They can remain in the air for days, potentially exposing people to inhalation. Breathing in these fibers is dangerous, and the likelihood is that you won't know you've been exposed until many years later when it's too late.

Asbestos has not been used in new builds since 1999, and its use has been banned in the UK since 1999. However, it's still present in many old buildings that were constructed before this time. If you live or work in an old building, it's worth checking whether there is asbestos in any part of the building.