Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry from the 1950s until the 1980s. It is a highly toxic substance that can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis, if not handled properly. Even small amounts of asbestos exposure can be dangerous, and it is estimated that thousands of people die each year due to asbestos-related diseases.

Asbestos was commonly used in a wide range of building materials, including insulation, fireproofing, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing, and even in decorative finishes such as textured coatings and paints. If your building was constructed or refurbished prior to the year 2000, there is a high probability that asbestos-containing materials were used in some form.

In the United Kingdom, it is a legal requirement to identify, manage and remove any asbestos on a site or in a building, in order to protect workers, residents and visitors from the dangers of exposure. Asbestos survey is the first step in this process.