What is defined as friable asbestos containing material?

Friable asbestos-containing material is identified as material that contains more than 1% asbestos and is easily crumbled or reduced to powder by hand pressure. This characteristic poses a significant risk because friable materials can release asbestos fibers into the air when disturbed, leading to potential inhalation and health risks.

This definition is crucial for understanding asbestos management, as it allows inspectors and safety professionals to identify materials requiring careful handling and remediation. Asbestos health hazards primarily arise from airborne fibers, making the friability of a material a key factor in assessing risk. The presence of more than 1% asbestos further emphasizes the need for strict safety protocols and regulations when dealing with such materials.

In contrast, materials with less than 1% asbestos typically don't fall into the same high-risk category, while non-friable materials might not pose the same immediate threat unless they are damaged or disturbed. Understanding this difference is vital for effective asbestos management and compliance with regulations.