What distinguishes friable asbestos from non-friable asbestos?

Friable asbestos is distinguished by its ability to easily release fibers into the air when disturbed, which makes it particularly hazardous. The term "friable" refers to materials that can be crumbled, reduced to powder, or otherwise dispersed through physical contact, such as disturbance by handling or environmental conditions. This characteristic means that friable asbestos poses a significant risk to health, as airborne fibers can be inhaled and lead to serious respiratory diseases, including asbestosis and mesothelioma.

In contrast, non-friable asbestos is bonded within a material, which typically makes it less likely to release fibers unless it is damaged or deteriorates over time. Non-friable forms may include asbestos-containing products like tiles or cement, which maintain their integrity under normal conditions. This distinction is critical for occupational hygiene monitoring and risk assessments, as proper identification informs the necessary safety precautions and management strategies when working around asbestos.