Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in building construction and other industries for its fire-retardant and insulating properties. At the time, asbestos was deemed a miracle material for its versatility and cost-effectiveness.

However, with the advent of new regulations and safety protocols, asbestos has been banned in many countries, including the UK, since 1999. The reason for this ban is that asbestos has been found to be highly toxic and carcinogenic when inhaled.

Asbestos is a silent killer that can cause serious health problems, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These diseases can take years or even decades to develop, which is why it's important to identify and remove asbestos from your property as soon as possible.