Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials until the mid-1980s. Its heat-resistant and flame-retardant properties made it an ideal material for insulation, roofing, flooring, and other construction materials. However, it was discovered that asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can cause severe lung diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The danger of these diseases becomes worse as the fibers accumulate in the lungs over time. It is estimated that thousands of people across the world still die every year due to asbestos-related illnesses.

In the UK, asbestos was banned in 1999, but many buildings, especially those built before the 1980s, still contain asbestos. The material is usually found in insulation, flooring, ceiling tiles, cement sheets, and other construction materials. Asbestos poses a severe health risk when its fibers are released into the air and inhaled. That is why it is crucial to have an asbestos survey of your building to determine whether it contains the material. If asbestos is found, it is essential to have it removed by professionals.