In brief
A total of 69 schools in the Australian Capital Territory are closing as a precaution due to the discovery of asbestos in colored play sand used in play areas. This decision follows recalls issued by Kmart and Target, with inspections currently underway to assess the situation. While air tests so far show no airborne asbestos, the government is acting to eliminate risk, prioritizing student safety.
A total of 69 schools in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) will be forced to close on Monday after coloured play sand was recalled due to asbestos risk, the government has said.
A recall for the products, which were found to have traces of asbestos in some samples, was issued by Kmart and Target over the weekend. The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) determined there was a 'low' risk that the asbestos could become airborne.
Inspections of the schools are currently underway and may take several days, stated ACT Education Minister Yvette Berry. She reassured that air testing has returned negative results for airborne asbestos in all inspected schools.
This closure follows previous warnings that impacted several schools and preschools regarding asbestos risks in play sand sold by Officeworks.
State Emergency Service volunteers and staff are now mapping out any visible coloured sand within the premises. The ACT government has confirmed that individuals who were in contact with the recalled products do not need a clinical assessment.
Despite the minimal risk, the government is committed to eliminating any potential danger, with only a few schools remaining open due to either having small supplies or none of the contaminated sand.
The recalled products include the Active Sandtub Sand Castle Building Set, as well as Blue, Green, and Pink Magic Sand. Asbestos, known for its harmful properties, was once commonly used but is now banned in Australia.
