Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were widely used in construction and manufacturing industries due to their excellent insulation, fire resistance, and durability. However, it was later discovered that asbestos fibers can cause serious health problems when released into the air and then inhaled. Asbestos can cause various lung diseases, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer, with symptoms typically appearing after years of exposure.

Asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, but buildings constructed before then may still contain asbestos in various forms, such as sprayed coatings, insulation boards, cement products, and floor tiles. If you suspect asbestos in your building, you should seek professional help immediately.