You may be aware that the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) are recalling a number of products containing play and craft sand that may also contain asbestos: Asbestos in consumer products – GOV.UK

On 9 July, a Habico bulk sand product was recalled. This may have been sold to schools and settings and so settings are asked to check the recall notice against products they may have at their setting: Product Recall: Habico Ltd 350g Jars of Coloured Sand (2606-0268) – GOV.UK

Settings are asked to follow the advice in the recall notice including stopping use immediately and keeping children and others away from the area until the product has been safely removed and the area safely cleaned.

Please note in non-domestic premises, including childcare settings, there is a requirement to assess and manage the risk from asbestos.  This specifically includes dealing with incidents and emergencies. Your local authority can advise on safe removal as the removal of any sand-based product identified as containing asbestos would be considered non-licensed work and must comply with the relevant parts of the Regulations, including its disposal as asbestos waste.

As new products are being continually added to the Recall list, childcare and playwork settings are asked to regularly check the following Recall webpage: Product Safety Alerts Reports and Recalls