Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and industry until the 1980s. It was prized for its heat resistance, durability, and insulation properties. Unfortunately, it was also found to be extremely hazardous to human health. When asbestos fibers are released into the air and inhaled, they can cause a range of serious and potentially fatal illnesses, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

Asbestos poses a particular risk during refurbishment and demolition work, when materials containing asbestos can be disturbed and release fibers into the air. Asbestos surveys are essential to identify potential asbestos-containing materials and manage the risks posed by them.