More than 70 schools across Australia and New Zealand were temporarily closed for cleaning after traces of asbestos were detected in commonly used children’s play sand products. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) issued national recall notices for various colorful play sand items when laboratory tests identified the presence of tremolite and chrysotile asbestos.
On Friday, numerous schools and preschools in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) shuttered following the ACCC’s announcement. The products in question were supplied by Educational Colours, leading to immediate precautions for the safety of students, staff, and the community. As the ACT government noted, the use of these sand products is extensive in public schools, necessitating the closures for thorough assessment and cleaning.
The situation escalated over the weekend as retailers Kmart and Target also issued recalls for specific items, including a 14-piece sandcastle building set and packs of colored magic sand. By Monday, over 70 schools in the ACT had been closed to ensure the effective management of this potential health risk.
Asbestos, a known carcinogen that can lead to several forms of cancer when particles are inhaled or ingested, is banned in both Australia and New Zealand. Fortunately, the ACCC reported that respiratory asbestos particles had not been detected in the tested samples. They mentioned that while the likelihood of airborne asbestos is low, caution remains vital due to the associated health risks.
In New Zealand, local reports confirmed that at least five schools that utilized the risky products were closed for asbestos testing. Moreover, over 120 additional schools have reached out to the government because they suspect they may have used the affected sand products. Ian Caplin, spokesperson for New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, expressed understanding of parents’ concerns and urged families to cease use of the potentially hazardous products immediately.
This incident highlights the importance of vigilant product safety measures and the swift actions necessary to ensure the health and safety of students in educational environments. In the face of potential health threats, community awareness and prompt responses are fundamental to mitigating risks and protecting children. As more schools conduct assessments and clear their facilities, there is hope that these proactive measures will foster a safer environment for all.