Asbestos is a naturally occurring silicate material that was commonly used in construction and manufacturing from the 1940s up until the 1990s. It was valued for its strength, durability, and heat resistance, and was used in a wide variety of products such as insulation, roofing, flooring, cement, and coatings.

However, it was soon discovered that exposure to asbestos fibers can cause serious and often fatal lung diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. These diseases can take years or even decades to develop, and their symptoms may not manifest until it's too late for effective treatment.

While the use of asbestos has been banned in the UK since 1999, many older buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that pose a risk to occupants and workers. If you suspect that your home or building contains asbestos, it's crucial to call in professional asbestos removal experts to assess and remove the material safely and effectively.