Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the construction industry from the 1950s to the 1980s. It was valued for its heat resistance, durability, and fireproofing properties. Asbestos was used in everything from roofing tiles to flooring, insulation, pipes, and more. However, it was found to be a health hazard because its microscopic fibers can be inhaled and cause serious lung diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Asbestos was banned in the UK in 1999, but many older buildings still contain asbestos materials and pose a risk to human health. Therefore, if you suspect that your property may contain asbestos, it's essential to have it tested by a professional asbestos testing company like Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire.