Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building materials in the UK until the 1980s. It was used because of its heat resistance, insulation properties and durability. However, it was discovered that asbestos fibres can cause serious health problems when inhaled. In fact, asbestos exposure is the leading cause of work-related deaths in the UK.

There are several types of asbestos, including chrysotile, amosite, crocidolite, tremolite, actinolite, and anthophyllite. All of these types are hazardous to health if inhaled.