Which of the following is true about friable asbestos?

Friable asbestos is characterized by its ability to crumble and release asbestos fibers into the air when disturbed. This property makes it particularly hazardous because airborne asbestos fibers can be inhaled, leading to serious health issues, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. The very nature of friable asbestos means that it can easily become a health risk when the material is disturbed, either through construction work or environmental changes.

In contrast, the other options misrepresent the properties and risks associated with friable asbestos. Safe handling without protective gear is never advisable due to the health risks. Friable asbestos is not non-toxic; it poses significant health risks and requires careful management and safety precautions. Additionally, while asbestos has insulating properties, it is not considered safe due to the health risks associated with exposure to its fibers. Therefore, the correct statement about friable asbestos is that it releases asbestos fibers into the air when disturbed.