Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry from the 1950s to the 1980s. Asbestos was used in building materials due to its fire-resistant properties, and it was commonly found in insulation, ceiling tiles, flooring, and roofing materials.

However, in the 1990s, the dangers of asbestos were discovered, and it was banned in many countries including the UK. Asbestos fibres can cause serious health problems when they are inhaled, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.