Nearly 70 schools in the Australian Capital Territory will remain closed on Monday after coloured play sand used in school playgrounds was found to contain traces of asbestos.
The sand products, sold in popular retail stores, were recently recalled after testing revealed the presence of asbestos in some samples. While authorities say the risk of the fibres becoming airborne is low, the government is taking strong precautionary measures to protect children and staff.
Education officials began inspecting schools over the weekend, a process that could take several days. Early air tests have shown no signs of airborne asbestos so far, but the government says it must take every reasonable step to eliminate potential risk.
The discovery follows an earlier warning that forced several schools and preschools to close late last week after similar concerns were raised about sand sold by another retailer.
The affected play sand comes in various colours and has been used widely across schools, which prompted the expanded closures. Emergency service crews and school staff have been moving from building to building, checking classrooms and playgrounds and identifying where the coloured sand has been used.
Despite the scare, health authorities say that anyone who has come into contact with the sand does not need medical evaluation at this stage. Some schools—around 23—will stay open, either because they only have small quantities of the sand or do not use the product at all.
Asbestos was once common in building materials but is now strictly banned due to its long-term health risks. When disturbed, it can release tiny fibres that lodge in the lungs and may cause cancer over time.
The recalled products include a coloured sandcastle building set and tubs of blue, green, and pink play sand.