Friable vs Non-Friable Asbestos: Which One is More Dangerous

Asbestos is a term many Australians are familiar with, especially those living in older homes or working in ageing commercial or industrial buildings. Once hailed for its fire-resistant and insulating properties, asbestos was widely used in construction materials across the country until it was banned. However, the legacy of its use remains; many properties in Australia may still contain asbestos in materials like insulation, roofing, vinyl tiles and cement sheeting.

The danger with asbestos lies in its fibres. When disturbed, these microscopic fibres can become airborne and inhaled, potentially leading to serious health issues such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. However, not all asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) pose the same level of risk.

In this article, we will explain the key differences between friable and non-friable asbestos, and why one is considered more dangerous than the other.

What is Asbestos?

In this article, we will explain the key differences between friable and non-friable asbestos, and why one is considered more dangerous than the other.

Types of Asbestos

There are two main types of asbestos found in buildings. They are friable asbestos and non-friable asbestos. These two types of asbestos are very different from one another and also possess different levels of danger to human health.

1. Friable Asbestos

Friable asbestos is a very harmful type of asbestos. It refers to asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) that can be easily crushed into powder by hand pressure. The friable asbestos releases harmful asbestos fibres into the air as it can be easily disturbed. Once these fibres go into the air, you may breathe them in without knowing, as they are too tiny to be visible.

When inhaled, it causes serious health risks and leads to diseases like asbestosis and lung cancer. Many older buildings still have friable asbestos materials in places like insulation, old heaters, and fireproofing products. Some building materials, like pipe coverings and ceiling insulation, are known to have friable asbestos-containing materials.

Where You Might Find Friable Asbestos

You can often find friable asbestos materials in older buildings, especially in areas that need heat protection. Some examples include:

Insulation around pipes and boilers
Spray-on insulation or fireproofing
Soundproofing in walls or ceilings
Old heater flues
Loose-fill asbestos in roof spaces

Since friable asbestos is loose and dusty, it needs special care. Friable asbestos removal must always be done by a licensed asbestos removalist who follows strict safety steps, as they know how to safely remove asbestos without spreading the fibres.

2. Non Friable Asbestos

Non friable asbestos is also called bonded asbestos. It is harder and does not break apart easily like the friable asbestos. That is why non friable asbestos is less likely to release fibres into the air unless it is cut, drilled, or damaged. While it may be safer than friable asbestos, it can still be dangerous if broken or disturbed.

Even if the asbestos is non-friable, it can still become friable over time as the weather, age, and water damage can break it down. The non friable asbestos removal should still be done by trained professionals as it can still be harmful to our health.

Where You Might Find Non Friable Asbestos

Many buildings built before the 1990s still have non-friable asbestos materials. You might find them in:

Asbestos cement sheeting used for walls and roofs
Eaves and fences made from asbestos cement
Backing for vinyl floor tiles
External cladding and corrugated roofing
Guttering or pipes made from materials containing asbestos

Even though non friable asbestos is safer than friable asbestos, it can still become dangerous over time. Rain, heat, and age can wear it down.

Key Differences: Friable vs Non-Friable Asbestos

When talking about asbestos, it is important to know the difference between friable and non-friable types. These two forms may look similar, but they behave very differently. One is more likely to release harmful fibres, while the other stays safer if it is not damaged. Some of the key differences are:

1. How Easily They Break Apart

Friable asbestos breaks apart easily: Friable asbestos is soft and loose. You can crush it with your hand. When this happens, dangerous fibres go into the air. People can breathe them in without knowing, which can lead to serious health problems.

Non-friable asbestos is hard and solid: This type is mixed with strong materials like cement. Because of this, it does not break apart easily. The non-friable asbestos fibres stay locked inside unless the material is damaged or cut.

2. Risk of Releasing Fibres

Friable asbestos releases fibres quickly: Since friable materials break apart with little effort, they can release fibres even if they are only touched or moved. This makes them much more dangerous, especially indoors.

Non-friable asbestos only releases fibres when damaged: As long as non-friable asbestos is in good shape and not disturbed, it does not release fibres. But if someone cuts, drills, or sands it, the fibres can come out and become harmful.

3. Where They Are Usually Found

Friable asbestos is used in soft, dusty materials: It was used in things like pipe insulation, sprayed coatings, and fireproofing. These materials can break down over time, which makes them a health risk even without touching them.

Non-friable asbestos is used in solid products: You can find it in roofing sheets, vinyl floor tiles, and cement panels. These products are firm and usually stay in one piece for many years if left alone.

4. Level of Danger

Friable asbestos is more dangerous: Because it releases fibres more easily, friable asbestos is a bigger health risk. It needs special handling and should only be removed by licensed professionals.

Non-friable asbestos is still dangerous but safer if left alone: Even though it contains asbestos, non-friable material is less risky as long as it is not broken or damaged.

Conclusion

It is important to know that all types of asbestos are hazardous and can cause harm. Both types can harm your health, but friable asbestos is more dangerous. If you do not know how to identify asbestos or you are unsure about the material, you should not try to touch or move it.

The best way to identify friable and non friable asbestos is by hiring a professional. You can learn how to spot asbestos from asbestos awareness training or contact a professional removalist to dispose of asbestos safely. This is the safest and most accurate way to know for sure if the material contains asbestos.

For professional and safe asbestos removal services, trust PureSafe to handle the job with care and expertise. Contact us today to ensure your environment is asbestos-free and secure.

FAQs on Friable vs. Non-Friable Asbestos

1. What is the major difference between friable and non-friable asbestos?

The ideal weight for a trekking backpack should not exceed 25-30% of your body weight. For most people, this is 10-15 kg (22–33 lbs).

2. How should asbestos be handled or removed?

Yes! Kathmandu and Pokhara have many gear rental shops offering sleeping bags, jackets, and even trek backpacks. Still, personal items like footwear and base layers should be your own.

3. Why is friable asbestos considered more dangerous than non-friable asbestos?

Hiring a porter is common and supports the local economy. Still, carry a daypack with essentials like water bottles, snacks, and layers.

4. Can non-friable asbestos become dangerous over time?

You can store electronics (phone, camera, power bank) in dry bags or zip-lock bags inside your pack. Carry a portable solar charger or extra power bank for longer treks. Minimize use in cold weather to preserve battery life.

5. How should asbestos be handled or removed?

Yes, you can wash clothes during the trek as many teahouses offer basic laundry or washing areas, especially on popular routes. You can carry some biodegradable soap and quick-dry clothing. You can plan to wash and dry clothes on rest days or sunny afternoons.