Australia Closes Schools Amid Asbestos Concerns Found in Children’s Sand
About 30 schools across Australia have been fully or partially closed due to concerns over asbestos contamination in children’s sand products. The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) issued a recall notice after traces of tremolite asbestos were detected in certain colored sands. While the regulator assessed the risk of airborne asbestos as low, it still poses potential health hazards, prompting immediate action from educational authorities.
School Closures and Precautionary Measures
On Friday, at least 15 schools and seven preschools in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) were fully closed, with an additional six schools partially shut down as a precautionary measure. Reports also indicate a school closure in Queensland. The closures are part of a broader response to the ACCC’s warning regarding the presence of tremolite asbestos in sand products used for sensory play and arts and crafts in schools. Yvette Berry, the ACT’s education minister, acknowledged the distress this news may cause families and emphasized that closing schools would facilitate necessary testing and remediation efforts.
Details of the Asbestos Contamination
The ACCC confirmed that tremolite asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was found in some sand samples after laboratory testing. However, the agency noted that respiratory asbestos was not detected in any samples, and the likelihood of releasing harmful asbestos fibers from the sand is minimal unless subjected to mechanical processing. Asbestos is a banned substance in Australia due to its health risks, which include lung damage and various diseases, including cancer. The contaminated sand products were imported from China and sold in Australia from 2020 to 2025, primarily through popular retailers like Officeworks.
Response from Other States and Territories
In Victoria, officials have stated that no state schools will close in response to the warning, citing a low health risk associated with the affected products. They are actively working to identify schools and early childhood services that may have used the recalled sand and will assist them in following remediation guidelines. Meanwhile, in New South Wales, a safety alert was issued to public schools, instructing them to safely remove any sand products linked to the recall. Authorities in both states have reassured the public that the health and safety of students and staff remain their top priority.
Recall of Contaminated Products
The ACCC’s recall notice specifically targets several sand products, including Kadink Sand (1.3kg), Educational Colours – Rainbow Sand (1.3kg), and Creatistics – Coloured Sand (1kg). New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has also initiated a voluntary recall for similar products as a precautionary measure. Officeworks has recalled additional items, including Kadink six-piece decorative sand and KD Magic Sand in various colors. The swift actions taken by authorities reflect the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to ensuring the safety of children in educational settings.
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