Enter Project Inputs
Example Data Table
| Scenario | Type | Condition | Age (years) | Moisture | Disturbance | Location | Activity | Area (m²) | Typical Score | Typical Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Office ceiling tile | Hard-bonded | Intact | 8 | Dry | Low | Enclosed/low traffic | Inspection | 12 | ~17 | Low |
| Mechanical room wrap | Soft/fibrous | Moderate | 30 | Frequent wetting/drying | Medium | Vibration/high airflow | Repair | 45 | ~77 | Critical |
| Old corridor coating | Semi-friable | Minor | 18 | Occasional dampness | Low | High traffic corridor | Inspection | 25 | ~39 | Moderate |
Formula Used
The calculator uses a weighted point model to estimate friability risk on a 0–100 scale. Each factor contributes a bounded score, then the total is classified into a risk level.
| Factor | Point Range | What It Represents |
|---|---|---|
| Material type | 5–20 | How easily the matrix sheds particles when handled. |
| Observed condition | 0–25 | Visible damage, cracking, delamination, and crumbling. |
| Moisture exposure | 0–10 | Binder degradation from wetting and drying cycles. |
| Expected disturbance | 0–15 | Intensity of contact from nearby work or removal tasks. |
| Location & airflow | 2–10 | Traffic, vibration, and airflow that can spread dust. |
| Planned activity | 0–10 | Work type influencing duration and amount of disturbance. |
| Material age | 2–10 | General weathering risk based on years in service. |
| Affected area | 2–10 | Scale of the task and potential for broader contamination. |
Total Score = Type + Condition + Moisture + Disturbance + Location + Activity + Age + Area
How to Use This Calculator
- Inspect the material and choose the closest condition and type.
- Estimate age, moisture exposure, and the area likely to be affected.
- Select the disturbance level and the planned work activity.
- Click Calculate Friability Risk to see score and level.
- Review recommended controls, then export CSV or PDF for records.
- Re-run with alternate assumptions to compare mitigation options.
Important: Use this score as a screening aid. Follow local regulations and qualified assessments for regulated materials and high-risk scenarios.
Practical Guidance
Friability as a controllable project risk
Friability describes how easily a material breaks down into fine particles during handling, vibration, or cutting. In renovation and maintenance work, friability influences exposure potential, cleanup burden, and schedule disruption. A structured screening score helps teams plan controls early, align subcontractors, and avoid uncontrolled releases.
Inputs that typically drive higher scores
Condition and disturbance are usually the strongest drivers. Crumbling edges, delamination, and powdery surfaces can release dust even with light contact. Wetting and drying cycles can weaken binders, while airflow and traffic distribute particles beyond the immediate work zone. Larger affected areas increase the likelihood of wider contamination.
Using the score to select controls
Use low scores to confirm routine housekeeping and careful handling. Moderate scores generally call for localized containment, improved ventilation management, and task-specific respiratory protection. High and critical scores indicate the need for stronger isolation, negative air, documented work permits, and competent oversight.
Documenting assumptions for repeatable decisions
The value of a screening tool is consistency. Record the observed condition, expected work method, and area affected, then export the result for supervisors and safety files. When conditions change—water intrusion, new cracking, or a revised scope—rerun the scenario to keep controls matched to the current risk profile.
Example data for a common renovation scenario
The following sample shows typical inputs and an example output. Your site conditions may differ, so use it as a reference point for estimating how choices affect the final risk score.
| Input | Example selection | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Material type | Semi-friable | Weaker binders increase particle shedding during contact. |
| Condition | Moderate damage | Cracking and delamination raise release potential. |
| Disturbance | Medium | Drilling and fastening can create localized dust. |
| Area | 40 m² | More surface area increases cleanup and spread risk. |
| Typical result | ~60 / 100 (High) | Consider stronger containment and controlled methods. |
FAQs
1) What does a friability risk score represent?
It is a screening score that estimates how likely a material is to shed fine particles during planned work. It helps compare scenarios, select controls, and document assumptions consistently.
2) Does a higher score mean the material is hazardous?
A higher score indicates greater release potential if disturbed. Hazard depends on what the material contains and local rules. Use the score to guide containment and verification steps.
3) Why do moisture and age increase risk?
Moisture cycling can break down coatings and binders, and aging can weaken the matrix through weathering and vibration. Together, they can make surfaces more prone to crumbling and dust.
4) How should I choose the disturbance level?
Base it on the most aggressive activity expected: no contact, light nearby work, drilling/cutting, or breakout/removal. When uncertain, choose the higher option to avoid under-controlling the task.
5) Can I use this tool for daily planning?
Yes. Use it before starting tasks, after damage is observed, or when the work method changes. Export results for toolbox talks and to track how controls align with current conditions.
6) What controls are most effective for high scores?
Strong isolation, controlled wet methods, HEPA filtration, limited access, and trained personnel typically provide the best risk reduction. Pair controls with good waste handling and housekeeping.
7) Is the PDF export acceptable for records?
It is suitable for internal documentation of inputs, results, and recommended controls. For regulated work, also keep required permits, monitoring results, and any third‑party assessments or clearance documentation.