Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the UK for insulation and other construction purposes until the late 1990s. It is known to cause serious and sometimes fatal health problems such as mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis. Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) can be present in many structures built or refurbished before the year 2000, including commercial and residential properties, schools, hospitals and other public buildings. Breathing in asbestos fibres from damaged or deteriorating ACMs can lead to serious health complications.