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ACT Closes 69 Schools After Asbestos Detected in Children’s Play Sands as Recalls Expand to Kmart and Target

Authorities say exposure risk is low after tests found no respirable fibres, triggering licensed clean-ups across schools.

Overview

  • Recalls now cover Kmart and Target Magic Sand and a sandcastle set, adding to ACCC notices for Kadink, Educational Colours and Creatistics products sold since 2020.
  • ACT authorities will keep 69 public schools shut for inspections, testing and remediation, with air monitoring to date reporting no airborne asbestos at schools.
  • South Australia has identified about 130 education sites with the sands, including roughly 20 with loose material, and is using licensed asbestos contractors without closing schools.
  • National health advice states no routine clinical assessment is required, instructs users to stop using the products, secure or double‑bag them, avoid vacuuming, and arrange approved disposal.
  • Samples have shown tremolite and/or chrysotile in some products, the sands are imported from China, and regulators say further laboratory analysis and audits are continuing.