How Is Asbestos Hazardous?
In the Manufacturing industry the word "friable" means that the asbestos can be crumbled to dust by hand. "Non-friable" is the term used to describe the asbestos product that cannot be crumbled to dust by hand. Non-friable material can still become hazardous. For instance, floor tile is non-friable, but if cut with a tile saw, it can become "friable" and hazardous.
The important thing to remember is that asbestos that cannot be seen is the most harmful. Airborne, microscopic asbestos fibers are easy to inhale and can lead to cancer several years later. It is known nown that asbestos does not produce any immediate symptoms such as headaches or sore muscles. The effects show up later in life, 15-40 years later. The longer you are exposed to asbestos fibers, the higher your risk of cancer later in life.
The three most common types of lung disease caused by asbestos exposure are mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.