What does the term 'friable' refer to in relation to asbestos?

The term 'friable' in relation to asbestos specifically refers to materials that can be crumbled or pulverized to a powder by hand pressure. This characteristic is significant because friable asbestos is more likely to release airborne fibers when disturbed. When asbestos-containing materials are friable, they pose a greater risk for inhalation of fibers, which can lead to serious health issues such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Understanding the friability of asbestos is crucial for managing and mitigating potential exposure risks during handling, removal, or disturbance of asbestos-containing materials. In contrast, the other options describe aspects that don't reflect the fragility and potential danger of friable asbestos, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the physical properties of asbestos materials in safety protocols.