Dozens of faculties within the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) will probably be closed on Monday following a recall of colored play sand, which authorities have warned poses an asbestos threat.
A complete audit is below manner as the usage of the product “is widespread across ACT public schools,” the federal government has mentioned.
Retailer chains Kmart and Goal have issued a voluntary recall for considered one of their sand merchandise, after asbestos was detected in some samples.
A complete of 69 ACT colleges have been recognized as stocking this model of sand, and will probably be closed on Monday, whereas 23 colleges will stay open.
Of the open colleges, three have “small stocks” of the sand, however “these are isolated and not impacting learning,” whereas the remaining 20 do not need this or any craft sand merchandise, in keeping with the federal government.
“In line with our regulatory obligations, and in the interest of the safety of our students, staff and community, we have decided to close some schools that have this product to allow for assessment, clean-up, and remediation to occur,” the federal government mentioned.
The announcement follows earlier closures of ACT public colleges on Friday and nationwide recommendation from the Australian Competitors and Shopper Fee (ACCC) concerning a unique ornamental colored sand, Kadink Ornamental Sand, additionally utilized in colleges.
The federal government mentioned this sand was discovered to include traces of chrysotile asbestos.
The recall is “a precautionary action based on preliminary results, and more comprehensive scientific testing is under way,” the federal government mentioned.
“Regulatory authorities are taking a precautionary approach to minimise any potential risk. This includes advice to stop using any identified products and to follow recall and disposal instructions,” the federal government mentioned.
“Based on currently available information, the risk to human health from exposure to these products is assessed as low,” it mentioned, including it doesn’t suggest “any clinical assessment for those who may have been in contact with this product”.
Yvette Berry, the Deputy Chief Minister and Labor member for the district of Ginninderra, north of Canberra, mentioned on Sunday afternoon that authorities proceed to evaluate the scenario.
“I know that this has been worrying for our families and staff,” Ms Berry mentioned in a publish on Fb, including that “based on currently available information, the risk to human health from exposure to these products is assessed as low.”
“Thank you to our community – we appreciate your patience and your understanding.”
