What does the term "friable" mean in relation to asbestos-containing material?

The term "friable" is specifically used to describe materials, including asbestos-containing materials, that can easily crumble, deteriorate, and release fibers into the air when disturbed. This characteristic makes friable materials particularly hazardous, as they can lead to exposure through airborne asbestos fibers, which pose significant health risks, including lung diseases and cancers.

Understanding that friable asbestos materials can be easily damaged is crucial for proper handling, safety measures, and remediation procedures. In contrast, descriptions such as a high melting point, opaque color, or being composed solely of synthetic fibers do not relate to the friability of a material or its associated health risk regarding asbestos.