The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued a Product Recall to warn about a safety risk associated with the Hobbycraft Giant Box of Craft.
The recall relates to vials of coloured sand included in the product, which may be contaminated with asbestos, a banned substance that poses a health risk even at very low levels of exposure. The product does not meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.
Consumers are advised to stop using the product immediately and keep it out of the reach of children. If the sand has been used, clean up sites where the product was used using wet cloths to avoid generating dust. Wear gloves and a mask. Double bag the sand, gloves, mask and cloths. Keep children and other people away from areas where the sand has been used until the area has been cleaned.
Retailers and childcare providers are encouraged to share this recall with parents and carers to reduce the risk of harm and the recall notice includes instructions on how to either dispose of the product or return it safely to: Product Recall: Hobbycraft Giant Box of Craft (2601-0364) - GOV.UK
Q and A:
If we have this product in a school, or similar setting for children, what should we do?
Anyone who has this Hobbycraft product should stop using it immediately and keep it out of the reach of children. Follow the recall instructions for details on returning or disposing of the product. For further information, visit the Hobbycraft website: hobbycraft.co.uk/giant-box-of-craft-sand-recall.html or call their customer service team on 0330 026 1400.
What is the risk that this product poses?
Our investigations are now centred on seeking clarity as to the nature of the contamination in this product and the potential effects on human health. We are seeking advice from the Government Scientific Community to ensure businesses can carry out effective testing and risk assessment of their products
What if I/parents no longer have the box to check the product number?
Consumers should contact Hobbycraft customer service team on 0330 026 1400.
Are there other similar products which are affected?
We are urgently carrying out investigations to understand the supply chain to determine the route to the UK market and will take the necessary action to protect UK consumers. We are aware of the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission recalls and are working in conjunction with them to understand if any of those products may have been sold in the UK.
What about products being sold on online marketplaces?
We have used our network of contacts with online marketplaces that trade in the UK and are ensuring they are taking the necessary action to remove from sale and recall affected products.
I’ve found a similar product which I think contains asbestos, what should I do?
If it is a Hobbycraft-branded product, please contact the company via: Hobbycraft | Product recall - Giant Box of Craft. If not, contact the Citizens Advice Consumer helpline, https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/, or your local Trading Standards department to raise any concerns you may have.
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