ACT and NZ Schools Shut Over Play Sand Asbestos Recall
Asbestos traced to coloured play sand prompts recalls and school closures across ACT and New Zealand, with safety guidelines issued for disposal.
Across the Australian Capital Territory and New Zealand, authorities are responding after asbestos was detected in several brands of coloured play sand. Six coloured sand products were recalled in New Zealand following testing in Australia, and the recall expanded after tremolite asbestos was found in four additional sand products—the 14-piece sandcastle building set and the blue, green, and pink Magic Sand sets—sold at Kmart.
In Australia, education officials said more than 70 public schools in the ACT area closed for assessment and cleaning, with hundreds of classrooms affected and many facilities seeking guidance from officials. While officials stress the overall health risk is considered low unless the sand is crushed or inhaled, the closures aim to prevent potential exposure while investigations continue.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission noted that respirable asbestos had not been detected in its samples and the chance of fibres becoming airborne is low, but authorities still urge schools and families who bought the products to stop using them and follow disposal guidelines to reduce any risk. Retailers Kmart and Target have issued recalls, and testing is expected to continue to determine if other products are contaminated. Education ministries in both countries have asked institutions to monitor updates and maintain safety precautions as the situation evolves. Parents and educators are advised to err on the side of caution and await further guidance from officials.
