Asbestos is a mineral fiber that was widely used in construction materials between the 1950s and 1980s, due to its resistance to heat, fire, and chemical erosion. However, it was soon discovered that asbestos fibers could become airborne when disturbed or damaged, and when inhaled or ingested, they could cause serious health problems. Asbestos exposure has been linked to lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other respiratory diseases, which can take years or decades to develop.

Since 1999, the use, importation, and supply of asbestos and asbestos-containing products have been banned in the UK. However, millions of buildings still contain asbestos, especially those built before 2000. Asbestos can be found in various forms, such as insulation, roofing, flooring, pipes, boilers, textured coatings, cement, and more. Asbestos is still a hidden danger that requires expert detection, management, and removal.