Asbestos is a common material that was widely used in construction from the 1950s to the 1980s. Despite its usefulness, it has been found to be extremely hazardous to human health. It can cause a number of serious lung conditions, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Asbestos fibers are so small that they can easily be inhaled, and once they are in the lungs, they can cause permanent damage.

If you own or manage a building that was built or refurbished before 2000, it is very likely that it contains asbestos. This means that you have a legal responsibility to manage the risk of asbestos exposure, which can be done through an asbestos survey.