What defines friable asbestos?

Friable asbestos is defined as asbestos material that can be crumbled or reduced to powder easily. This property is significant because friable materials pose a greater health risk; when disturbed, they can release airborne fibers that can be inhaled. The ability to easily crumble or powder the material indicates that it is not securely bound and can easily become a source of exposure.

In contrast, asbestos that is covered with another material or securely attached to surfaces does not present the same immediate risk, as these conditions help contain the fibers and prevent them from becoming airborne. Solid block forms of asbestos are generally categorized as non-friable, meaning they are less likely to release fibers unless mechanically disturbed. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for safe handling and management of asbestos in various environments.