Approximately 30 schools across Australia have been either fully or partially closed due to concerns regarding asbestos risks linked to children’s sand products. The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) issued a recall on Wednesday for specific colored sand products that were found to contain traces of tremolite asbestos.
According to the ACCC, the risk of asbestos becoming airborne is considered “low,” but it still “may pose a risk.” As of Friday, at least 15 schools and seven preschools in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) have fully closed, while six others closed partially as a precaution. Reports also indicate a school closure in Queensland.
The ACCC revealed that tremolite asbestos was detected in some samples following laboratory tests. However, no respiratory asbestos was identified, and the release of such fibers is deemed “unlikely” unless the sand is subjected to mechanical processing, such as crushing. Asbestos is classified as a banned substance in Australia due to its health risks, including lung damage and various diseases such as cancer.
The sand products in question, which have been imported from China and distributed across Australia between 2020 and 2025, are sold by various retailers, including Officeworks. The recall notice specifies several products, including Kadink Sand (1.3kg), Educational Colours – Rainbow Sand (1.3kg), and Creatistics – Coloured Sand (1kg).
In response, New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has also enacted a voluntary recall for similar products as a precautionary measure. Notably, Officeworks has recalled additional sand products linked to the contamination concerns.
Yvette Berry, the ACT’s education minister, mentioned on social media that the affected products were used in public schools for sensory play and arts and crafts. She noted that closures would facilitate necessary testing and remediation.
In Victoria, officials have confirmed that no state schools will close based on the warning, citing a low associated health risk. Similarly, in New South Wales, a safety alert has been issued for public schools to remove the recalled sand products.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0qpvq3v3xeo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss