Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of friable asbestos?

The option indicating that friable asbestos can be easily observed with the naked eye is not characteristic of friable asbestos. Friable asbestos refers to materials that can be crumbled or reduced to powder when hand pressure is applied. While some friable materials may be visible, friability itself does not guarantee that the asbestos content is easily detectable without specialized equipment. In fact, friable asbestos often exists in forms that may not be readily apparent to the naked eye, such as within insulation or textured coatings, making it crucial for trained professionals to assess potential asbestos hazards accurately.

The other characteristics mentioned are true for friable asbestos. It indeed crumbles under finger pressure, indicating its loose and dusty nature, which can release fibers into the air if disturbed. Furthermore, materials containing more than 1% asbestos are classified as asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), and friable asbestos poses a heightened safety risk, as it can be easily disturbed and become airborne, leading to inhalation and associated health risks.