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The recall of children’s coloured play sand products potentially contaminated with asbestos was expanded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) last week.
Tests have found low levels of tremolite, a naturally occurring asbestos, in a range of products.
The affected items include EC Rainbow Sand (1.3kg) and Creatistics Coloured Sand (1kg), which have been sold through retailers such as Paper Plus, Hobby Land, NZ School Shop, Office Products Depot, Discount Office, Acquire and Qizzle. Some online retailers may also have supplied the products.
Another recall has been issued for Craft Sand 380g, which on the Hibiscus Coast, has been sold through 2 & More Ōrewa, $2 Plus Whangaparāoa, Dollar Topia Silverdale and Family Market Ōrewa.
A further recall was issued on November 24 for Rainbow Sand Art Toys. To check for more recall and retail outlets, consult the productsafety.govt.nz website.
MBIE says it is working with WorkSafe, the Ministry of Education, Te Whatu Ora and retailers to confirm the scope of the recall and coordinate next steps. MBIE has also asked councils to assist with enquiries about disposal, as asbestos cannot be placed in general rubbish.
Auckland Council Waste Solutions general manager Justine Haves emphasises the importance of following official guidance.
“We know that this has caused concern, and we want to reassure the community that MBIE, WorkSafe, ourselves and other agencies are working quickly to minimise the risk to Aucklanders. For those who have been affected, it’s really important that you follow all advice from these agencies and safely dispose of the product.”
Have you been affected?
Health NZ advises households to safely contain the product as follows:
- Stop using the product immediately
- Keep the sand sealed in its container and place it in a thick plastic bag, sealing it securely with tape.
- Place that bag or container into a second thick plastic bag, seal it securely with tape, and label it “Asbestos-Contaminated Material”.
- Do not dispose of the product in household rubbish.
- Do not take asbestos to a transfer station.
Drop-off site: Safely contained products can be taken to the Auckland Council Asbestos Lab in Grafton.
