Asbestos Risk Closes 69 ACT Schools Amid Urgent Play Sand Recall

A total of 69 schools in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) were forced to close on Monday after coloured play sand was recalled due to asbestos risk, the government announced. The recall was issued by Kmart and Target on Saturday, following the discovery of traces of asbestos in some samples. The Australian Competition Consumer Commission (ACCC) stated that there was a "low" risk that the asbestos could become airborne or fine enough for inhalation. According to ACT Education Minister Yvette Berry, inspections of the schools are under way and could "take days" to complete. Berry also reported that air testing so far has come back "negative to airborne asbestos" from all schools. The minister expressed her appreciation for the swift action taken by Kmart and Target in recalling the affected products, stating that the safety of students and staff remains the top priority. The recall and subsequent school closures come after several schools and preschools in the region were fully or partially closed on Friday, following a warning over asbestos risks in children's sand sold by Officeworks. The incident has also led to school closures in New Zealand, with at least two other schools set to close for testing on Monday, according to the New Zealand Herald. The use of coloured play sand in schools has been a common practice in Australia, with many schools using the product to create safe and engaging play areas for students. However, the discovery of asbestos in the sand has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with its use. The ACCC has emphasized that the risk of asbestos becoming airborne or fine enough for inhalation is low, but the agency has also stressed the importance of taking precautions to minimize any potential risks. In response to the recall, Kmart and Target have issued a statement urging customers to stop using the affected products and to return them to their stores for a full refund. The school closures are expected to continue for several days, with inspections and air testing being carried out at each affected school. The ACT government has assured parents and students that the situation is being closely monitored and that every effort is being made to ensure their safety.