Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that have been widely used in construction materials. Its fibrous nature makes it an ideal reinforcement material, especially in concrete and insulation. However, over the years, asbestos has been linked to serious health problems, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.

Despite the widespread use of asbestos in the UK construction industry, its use was banned in 1999. Nevertheless, many buildings and homes constructed before this time may still contain asbestos, which is why asbestos testing in Laleham is crucial.