Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction, insulation, and other industrial applications throughout the 20th century. It became popular due to its heat-resistant and durable properties, as well as its affordability, and was used in a variety of applications, including:

• Roofing and siding materials
• Flooring tiles and adhesives
• Insulation for pipes, boilers, and electrical systems
• Textured paints and coatings
• Fireproofing materials

However, it was later discovered that asbestos can cause severe health problems when it is disturbed or damaged, releasing tiny fibres into the air that can be inhaled and cause long-term damage to the lungs and other organs. Asbestos has been linked to several serious diseases, including:

• Mesothelioma
• Asbestosis
• Lung cancer
• Pleural thickening

Therefore, the use of asbestos has been banned in the UK since 1999, and any materials containing asbestos that were installed before this date must be carefully managed and disposed of to avoid health risks.