Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were widely used in the construction industry in the UK until the 1980s. It was used for its excellent heat-resistant properties, and because it was affordable and readily available. Unfortunately, it was later discovered that exposure to asbestos fibres can cause serious health problems including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, but it still exists in many older buildings, particularly those built before the 1980s. Asbestos is often found in insulation materials, roofing, and other building materials.