ADDRI commentary on the asbestos found in coloured sand

The discovery of asbestos contamination in coloured children’s sand products has led to national concern after the ACCC recalled a range of imported colourful children’s and products. With school closures predominantly in the ACT, but also around Australia, this has caused understandable worry among parents, teachers, and school communities.

ADDRI’s Academic and Research Director A/Prof Anthony Linton has been called to speak to media across print, radio and television to provide clarity and reassurance on the health risks. As Anthony advises “people should not be overly worried about this as the risk for children and families is going to be very small. The odds of developing an asbestos-related disease from any exposure in this particular scenario are very low.”

Next week is National Asbestos Awareness Week – and this a stark reminder that asbestos is not a ‘thing of the past’ but remains an ongoing public health issue in Australia – we have over 6 million tonnes in our built environment – and despite rigorous testing, can slip through our borders in unexpected products.

At ADDRI, our mission is to prevent asbestos-related diseases through research, education, and advocacy. We will continue to support communities and provide expert advice.

Explore A/Prof Anthony Linton’s full media commentary and expert advice here.

What You Need to Know: Coloured Sand Recall & Asbestos Risk

Why Is the Sand Being Recalled?

The asbestos contamination of children’s play sand was discovered by chance in an Australia laboratory.
The ACCC has issued a national recall for certain brightly coloured children’s sand products, including brands like Educational Colours and Kadink, after laboratory testing found traces of tremolite asbestos.
Tremolite is a naturally occurring form of asbestos.
WorkSafe reports also found traces of chrysotile asbestos in some samples.

How High Is the Health Risk?

A/Prof Anthony Linton (ADDRI) advises the risk is very low for children and families in this scenario.
The form of asbestos detected is not “respirable” in its current state, meaning it is unlikely to become airborne under normal conditions.
To release dangerous fibres, the sand would need to be mechanically disrupted — for example, crushed or pulverised.
That said, any asbestos exposure is not without concern — there’s no truly “safe” level.

Why Are Authorities Taking Action?

Even though the risk is low, the recall is precautionary: contaminated products must be safely removed and disposed of.
Asbestos-related diseases often take decades to develop (e.g. mesothelioma can occur 30–50 years after exposure). 1
Removing these products safely requires care, so authorities want to make sure handling and disposal follow strict protocols. Yahoo News Australia

What Should You Do If You Have This Sand?

Based on current advice from ADDRI and public health authorities:

Stop using it immediately. Don’t let children or adults play with or handle the recalled sand.
Isolate it securely. Place the sand in a heavy-duty plastic bag, double tape it, and keep it out of reach.
Clean carefully if it’s loose. Use a wet cloth (to avoid dust), and wear protective gear like gloves, a mask, and coveralls.
Dispose safely. Do not put the sand in general waste. Follow guidance from local asbestos-waste facilities.

Do You Need Medical Advice?

There is no simple medical test to predict who might develop an asbestos-related disease from this exposure.
According to public health advice, routine medical evaluation is not necessary for most people, given the low risk.
But if you’re very concerned — especially if there was a lot of handling — you can reach out to a health professional for guidance.

At ADDRI, we know asbestos remains one of Australia’s most serious public health risks. While this specific situation appears low risk, it’s an important reminder that constant vigilance, testing, and safe handling matter.

Please contact us if you are unsure or would like further information.

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