Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were widely used in building materials throughout the UK from the 1950s until the 1980s. Asbestos was valued for its heat resistance and durability, and was used in a variety of applications including insulation, roofing, and pipework.

However, asbestos is also a highly hazardous substance that can cause serious health problems if inhaled. Asbestos fibres are very small and easily inhaled, and can cause a range of conditions including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.