Asbestos is a hazardous substance that can pose a serious health risk if not handled properly. It was commonly used in construction materials such as insulation, flooring, and roofing until it was finally banned in the UK in 1999. While the use of asbestos has been greatly reduced over the years, it is still present in many older buildings.

When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, tiny fibres are released into the air. These fibres are invisible to the naked eye and can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause serious health problems such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.