Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction in the UK until the 1980s. It was used due to its heat-resistant and insulating properties, and was commonly found in building materials such as insulation, roofing, and flooring. While asbestos is harmless when left undisturbed, when these materials are disturbed or damaged, they can release asbestos fibres into the air. These fibres can then be breathed in, which can lead to serious health problems, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.