Which of the following is a characteristic of regulated asbestos-containing material (RACM)?

Regulated Asbestos-Containing Material (RACM) is defined as materials that contain a certain percentage of asbestos, usually 1% or more, and can pose a risk to health when disturbed. One of the critical characteristics of RACM is that it must be handled and managed according to strict regulations, which often include removal during renovation or demolition activities due to the potential for asbestos fibers to be released into the air.

When building materials that are classified as RACM are disturbed, they can release harmful asbestos fibers that can lead to serious health issues, including asbestosis and mesothelioma. Therefore, regulations mandate the removal of RACM during renovations or demolition activities to mitigate these health risks.

The other options do not accurately describe RACM: materials with less than 1% asbestos are generally not categorized as RACM, while non-friable materials, which do not release fibers easily, can still be considered RACM if they contain enough asbestos. Finally, even if intact, materials classified as RACM present a potential hazard and should be managed according to specific regulations, not simply regarded as harmless.