Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral that was popularly used in construction and manufacturing products up until the 1980s, due to its strength, durability and fire-resistant properties. However, it has since been discovered that prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can cause a number of serious and often fatal diseases, such as lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma.

As a result, the UK government introduced strict regulations regarding the use and management of asbestos in buildings. As a property owner, manager or contractor, it is your legal responsibility to ensure that any asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in your building are identified, monitored and handled appropriately. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines, legal action and reputational damage.