WA Health is urging Western Australians to take precautions following a product recall published by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) recall notice issued on 13 November (external site) for children's coloured sand products that may contain asbestos.
Chief Health Officer Dr Andrew Robertson confirmed that testing by an Australian-accredited laboratory has detected tremolite asbestos in some imported coloured and decorative sand products commonly used in children's play and craft activities.
The ACCC recall was initiated as a precautionary measure after these findings.
Based on current information, the risk to the community from these products is low, but the public should take a cautious approach.
What should you do?
Stop using coloured sand products immediately and follow these steps:
- Do not play with or handle these products.
- Store them in sealed containers in a secure location.
- Do not dispose of them yet – further instructions will be provided.
- If cleanup is needed:
- Use wet cloths to avoid creating dust.
- Wear gloves, a mask, and disposable coveralls if available or other protective clothing which will be disposed.
- Double bag the sand and all protective items.
- Store securely until disposal advice is issued.
Health information
- Health effects from asbestos typically occur after long-term inhalation of very small fibres, not from casual or limited contact.
- The recall is precautionary, and more comprehensive testing is underway.
- Based on current advice, people who have handled these products do not need to seek medical attention.
WA Health is working closely with the Departments of Education, Communities, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (WorkSafe and Consumer Protection) to manage this issue.
A full list of impacted products and retailers who sold the products can be found here (external site).
