November 17, 2025, 10:08November 17, 2025, 10:08
After traces of asbestos were found in colored play sand, numerous schools and daycare centers in Australia and New Zealand removed the substance from their facilities as a precautionary measure.
Especially in Australia’s Capital Territory (ACT), more than 70 schools remained closed at the beginning of the week to check and clean for possible contamination.
The authorities have closed the schools for security reasons.image: IMAGO/aap
The sand products for children were also tested in New Zealand – and traces of asbestos were also discovered there, as Radio New Zealand reported. Many educational institutions also reacted and closed so that potentially contaminated materials could be disposed of properly. The sand is used, among other things, in lessons and for sensory support.
The recalls affect several products, including colorful “Magic Sand” sets sold between 2020 and 2025. Laboratory tests by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) detected chrysotile and tremolite asbestos.
Although inhalable asbestos has not been detected, authorities warn of asbestos fibers that could enter the respiratory tract. Experts emphasize that the risk of illness after a single or short-term contact is very low, but precautionary measures should still be taken, the products should be disposed of and the rooms should be thoroughly cleaned.
More than 70 schools were closed. image: IMAGO/aap
The ACCC announced a nationwide recall of Educational Colors products last Wednesday. Many schools and preschools down under remained closed on Friday. Australian department store chains Kmart and Target voluntarily issued further recalls of sand play sets on Saturday after tests for asbestos came back positive.
Asbestos has been used in large quantities in construction for decades – but the substance can cause various types of cancer. Australia has had a total ban on the manufacture, sale, use and import of all types of asbestos since the end of 2003. (sda/dpa)