Non Friable Asbestos
Summary
Non-friable asbestos refers to asbestos-containing material in which the asbestos fibres are bound within a solid matrix, such as cement, resin or vinyl. When in good condition, non-friable asbestos is less likely to release fibres compared to friable asbestos; however, it can still present a health risk if disturbed, damaged or degraded.
Non-friable asbestos is commonly found in older buildings and infrastructure and must be identified and managed to prevent inadvertent exposure during maintenance, refurbishment or demolition.
Definition
Non-friable asbestos is asbestos-containing material that, when dry, cannot be crumbled or reduced to powder by hand pressure. The asbestos fibres are bound within a matrix that limits fibre release unless the material is cut, drilled, broken or allowed to deteriorate.
Common examples include asbestos cement sheeting, roofing, fencing, pipes, vinyl floor tiles and some adhesives and mastics.
Why Non-Friable Asbestos Matters
From a health perspective, non-friable asbestos can still release fibres when disturbed. Activities such as drilling, sanding, cutting or breaking asbestos-containing materials can generate airborne fibres if appropriate controls are not in place.
From a regulatory perspective, non-friable asbestos is subject to specific management and removal requirements under work health and safety legislation. While some low-risk removal activities may be permitted under certain conditions, inappropriate handling can result in regulatory action and exposure risk.
Non-friable asbestos also has practical implications for building maintenance and redevelopment. Identification of asbestos-containing materials early allows works to be planned appropriately and avoids unplanned delays, cost increases or safety incidents.
When Non-Friable Asbestos Is Typically Identified
Non-friable asbestos is commonly identified where:
Buildings or structures were constructed prior to asbestos bans
Asbestos cement products were historically used
Vinyl flooring or adhesives are present
External cladding, fencing or roofing materials are installed
Refurbishment or demolition works are proposed
Assessment is typically undertaken through asbestos inspection or hazardous materials surveys.
Legislative and Regulatory Context
Non-friable asbestos is regulated under work health and safety legislation and associated codes of practice.
In New South Wales, non-friable asbestos must be managed to prevent exposure and may only be removed under specific conditions, depending on quantity, method and risk. Removal requirements differ from friable asbestos but remain tightly controlled. Similar regulatory frameworks apply across Australia.
Clearance inspection may be required following removal or disturbance.
How We Can Help
Confluence Environmental provides independent asbestos consulting services related to non-friable asbestos.
Our services typically include:
Advice on management, encapsulation or removal options
Support during refurbishment or demolition planning
Asbestos air monitoring where required
Clearance inspections and certification
We focus on practical, compliant management of asbestos risk across a range of site conditions.
Related Terms and Concepts
Asbestos
Friable Asbestos
Asbestos Management Plan
Asbestos Register
Asbestos Clearance Inspection
Hazardous Materials Survey
Asbestos Contamination