Which type of asbestos is considered more hazardous due to its friable nature?

Amosite is recognized as more hazardous primarily due to its friable nature, which refers to the ability of the asbestos material to crumble easily under pressure. This characteristic allows amosite fibers to become airborne, significantly increasing the risk of inhalation. When inhaled, these fine fibers can lead to serious health issues, including asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.

While chrysotile is the most commonly used form of asbestos and is less likely to be friable, amosite has a higher potential for creating airborne particles, making its handling and removal procedures particularly critical. Actinolite and anthophyllite, while also types of asbestos, are not as commonly encountered in occupational settings and are typically present in smaller quantities, thus not posing the same level of widespread risk as amosite. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for ensuring safety in environments where asbestos is present.