What does the term "non-friable asbestos" refer to?

The term "non-friable asbestos" refers to asbestos materials that are stable, cohesive, and unlikely to release fibers into the air under normal conditions. This type of asbestos is typically found in materials such as floor tiles, roofing materials, and cement products, where it is bound within a matrix that prevents it from breaking down easily.

Non-friable asbestos can still pose a risk if it is damaged or subjected to processes that disturb the material, but under normal conditions, it does not release airborne fibers, making it less immediately hazardous compared to friable asbestos, which can crumble and release fibers more readily. Understanding the state of asbestos in various materials is crucial for safety assessments and remediation practices, especially in buildings constructed before the regulations on asbestos use were tightened.