Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was extensively used in building materials and insulation prior to the ban in the UK in 1999. Asbestos can be found in a variety of products, including cement, pipe insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing, and more.

Asbestos is hazardous to human health when its fibers become airborne and are inhaled or ingested. Asbestos exposure can lead to serious and life-threatening diseases, such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Asbestos-related illnesses can take decades to manifest and can affect not only workers who handled asbestos products but also their families and anyone who comes into contact with contaminated materials.

Therefore, it's essential to identify and manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in buildings and structures to prevent exposure and comply with legal requirements. That's where an asbestos survey comes in.