Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials from the 1950s through to the 1980s. It has a number of desirable properties, including its strength, durability, and resistance to heat and fire. As a result, asbestos was used in a huge range of building materials, including roofing materials, insulation, pipes, and plaster.

However, it's now widely recognized that asbestos is incredibly harmful to human health. Inhaling asbestos fibers can cause a number of diseases, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. There is no safe level of asbestos exposure: even a small amount of exposure can have serious health consequences.

If you suspect that your building contains asbestos, it's important to get a professional survey carried out. A survey will identify any asbestos-containing materials in your building, and will provide advice on the best course of action. Generally, if asbestos-containing materials are in good condition and not likely to be disturbed, they can be left in place. However, if they are damaged or likely to be disturbed, they will need to be removed.