Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in construction and manufacturing due to its exceptional heat and fire resistance, sound absorption properties, and strength. Asbestos can be found in various building materials such as insulation, ceiling tiles, flooring, roofing, and even paint.

Though asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, buildings constructed before then may still contain the hazardous mineral. It's crucial to know if asbestos is present in your home or workplace so you can take necessary precautions to avoid exposure.