Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials in the UK until the 1990s due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, when asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are damaged or disturbed, they can release harmful asbestos fibres into the air, which can lead to serious respiratory diseases such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.

Even if you live or work in a newer building, it doesn't necessarily mean you're safe from asbestos exposure. Asbestos was only completely banned in the UK in 1999, so any property built before then may still contain asbestos-containing materials.