Category I and II Nonfriable ACM

Under the EPA asbestos NESHAP, nonfriable asbestos-containing materials are split into two categories. Category I covers packings, gaskets, resilient floor coverings and asphalt roofing products with more than 1 percent asbestos; Category II covers all other nonfriable asbestos materials, such as asbestos cement products.

Origin

The categories are defined in the asbestos NESHAP regulations, 40 C.F.R. 61.141, as part of EPA's rules for demolition and renovation. EPA distinguished them because Category II materials, like cement sheet and siding, are more likely to break apart and release fibers when demolished.

Significance in Asbestos Context

The category decides whether a material must be removed before demolition or renovation. Category I material in good condition generally may stay in place unless it has become friable or will be sanded, ground, cut or abraded. Category II material must be removed if it is likely to be crumbled, pulverized or reduced to powder during the work. Either kind becomes regulated asbestos-containing material once it reaches that state. These rules apply to outdoor emissions; workplace protection is set separately by OSHA. For patients and families, the categories are a reminder that 'nonfriable' products such as gaskets, floor tile and cement pipe can release fibers when cut, sanded or broken, which is how many workers were exposed.

Example Sentence

The inspector classified the vinyl floor tile as Category I nonfriable ACM and the cement siding as Category II, so the siding had to come off before the house was demolished.

Related Terms

Regulated Asbestos-Containing Material (RACM), NESHAP, Friable, Vinyl-Asbestos Tile, Asbestos Siding, Asbestos Packing

Notes

• Products called nonfriable could still release fibers when cut, drilled or sanded; mention that kind of work to your lawyer.
• Do not cut, sand or break suspect materials at home; have them tested first.