Friable Asbestos - What does friable mean when it comes to asbestos

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Lets define friable when it comes to asbestos

When we talk about the dangers of asbestos, you might often hear the term 'friable asbestos'. So, what exactly is it, and why is there so much concern surrounding it? Let’s break this down for better understanding.

Defining Friable Asbestos

Firstly, to understand friable asbestos, let's quickly recap what asbestos is. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral, made up of small fibres, which was once popularly used in building materials because of its strength and resistance to heat.

Now, when we say something is "friable", we mean it can be easily crumbled or pulverised by hand when it's dry. Therefore, friable asbestos refers to any asbestos-containing material that can be easily broken or damaged, releasing those tiny asbestos fibres into the air.

Types of Asbestos Materials

Asbestos-containing materials can be grouped into two main categories:

Non-friable (or bonded) asbestos: This type is mixed with other materials, like cement, making it harder and more resistant to breaking down. Examples of products include asbestos cement sheets or tiles.
Friable asbestos: This kind is not bonded with other materials, making it much softer and easier to crumble. Examples include asbestos insulation or certain sprayed-on coatings.

The Danger of Friable Asbestos and Asbestos Fibre

Now, here's why friable asbestos is especially worrisome:

Easy Release of fibres: Since friable asbestos can be easily crumbled, it means that those harmful asbestos fibres can be released into the air with little effort. This increases the risk of exposure.
Inhalation Risk: Once the fibres are in the air, there's a chance people can breathe them in. These fibres are tiny and can go deep into the lungs.
Long-term Health Issues: When asbestos fibres settle in the lungs, they can stay there for a long time. Over years, this can lead to serious health problems, including lung diseases and cancer.
It's Unpredictable: It's hard to predict when friable asbestos might get damaged or disturbed. It could be during renovations, accidental hits, or even just over time as the friable material ages.

Managing the Risks of Asbestos Fibre

If you believe there may be friable asbestos in your environment, it’s crucial to approach the situation with caution. Here are some steps to consider:

Don't Touch: If you're unsure about a material, it's best not to touch, disturb, or try to remove it yourself.
Seek Expertise: Get in touch with professionals like NSWAR who specialise in asbestos identification and removal. They can assess the situation and advise on the best course of action.
Educate Yourself: The more you know about asbestos and its risks, the better equipped you are to handle any potential threats. Stay informed and be proactive.

Asbestos needs careful management

While all types of asbestos pose risks, friable asbestos and asbestos products containing friable asbestos are especially dangerous because of how easily it can release harmful fibres. By understanding what it is and recognizing its potential dangers, you can take steps to protect your health and the health of those around you. Always remember, safety first!

Knowledge is power. By being aware of the asbestos materials and risks they pose in our environment, we can make better decisions and ensure a safer space for all.

Call 0407 050 694 today for an obligation free discussion about how we can help you with your asbestos problems or asbestos removal.