Close to Seventy Schools to Close in the Australian Capital Territory Over Fears of Asbestos in Children's Sand

Around 69 learning centers in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) are set to close on the start of the week following colored children's sand was recalled because of asbestos risk, authorities announced.

A recall for the products which were found to have asbestos particles in a few tests came from two major retailers on Saturday.

Regulatory bodies reported there was a “low” chance that the asbestos could turn into dust or fine enough for inhalation.

Inspections of the schools are under way and could “take days”, explained the Education Minister for ACT via social media. Furthermore, air testing has returned free from asbestos in the air from every institution.

This comes after a number of kindergartens and schools in the region were either completely or partly closed on last Friday, due to a caution over potential asbestos hazards in play sand available at a separate company.

“Unfortunately, these sand products are more commonly utilized in our institutions than earlier recalled items,” added the official.

State Emergency Service volunteers and education workers have been checking premises and recording locations of colored sand during the past few days, it was further stated.

The ACT government clarified that individuals exposed to the item do not need a health evaluation.

She emphasized even with the low threat, the authorities is mandated to minimize risks to the fullest extent.

Up to 23 facilities will continue operations as they possess limited quantities of the product or are completely free of the product.

These items set out in the recall notice are marketed as a sand castle building kit, and colored magic sand varieties.

The hazardous material, historically utilized in building materials, can release toxic fibres into the environment if disturbed or processed that can stick in lung tissue and - over a long period - cause cancer.

Bringing in or sending out asbestos or items that include the material is prohibited under Australian law.

Tammie Figueroa
Tammie Figueroa

Lena is a tech journalist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and consumer electronics.