Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was valued for its remarkable properties, such as heat resistance, electrical insulation, and sound absorption. Therefore, asbestos was widely used in the construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding industries, among others, for more than a century. However, it was not until the 20th century that the harmful effects of asbestos on human health were recognized.

Asbestos fibers are tiny, sharp, and durable, which makes them easily airborne and inhaled. Once inside the lungs, asbestos fibers can cause inflammation, scarring, and cancerous changes in the tissues over time. Exposure to asbestos can lead to various illnesses, including asbestosis, a chronic lung disease that impairs breathing; mesothelioma, a rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen; and lung cancer, which is often fatal.

Asbestos is still present in many buildings and materials in the UK, particularly in older buildings built before the ban on asbestos in 1999. Therefore, it is vital to identify and manage ACMs in your property, whether you own or manage it or are planning to renovate or demolish it. Asbestos testing and surveying can help you determine whether a material contains asbestos and what measures you need to take to handle it safely and legally.