What differentiates friable asbestos from non-friable asbestos?

The key characteristic that differentiates friable asbestos from non-friable asbestos is that friable asbestos can be easily crumbled or pulverized into a powder by hand. This attribute makes friable asbestos a significant concern for health risks, as the fibers can become airborne and easily inhaled, leading to serious respiratory issues.

On the other hand, non-friable asbestos is not easily broken down and maintains its integrity under normal circumstances, making it less likely to release harmful fibers into the air unless it is damaged or disturbed during renovation or demolition activities. This distinction is crucial for identifying potential health hazards in buildings and for implementing appropriate safety protocols during inspection and remediation.