Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials due to its robustness, heat resistance, and insulation properties. It was commonly added to cement, insulation, tiles, and other building materials, especially between the 1950s and 1990s. However, asbestos has been linked to several fatal diseases, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.

Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) were banned in the UK in 1999. However, many older buildings still contain ACMs, and property owners and managers have a legal obligation to manage them safely to prevent health risks for occupants and workers.