The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have shared a Joint Statement regarding potential asbestos contamination in sand-containing consumer products and product recalls.

This statement outlines the risks relating to asbestos exposure, and the zero-tolerance approach to asbestos in consumer products taken in the UK.

Any products that have been found to contain asbestos are subject to a recall. To date, no asbestos has been identified in supplies of playpit sand, but several products with play sand, such as arts and crafts products, are affected. Although the risks to health are expected to be low, we recommend that settings review this and the OPSS guidance regarding asbestos in consumer products, including how to dispose of recalled products.