Safely disposing of sand that may contain asbestos
Source: Australian Competition and Consumer Commission
What products have been recalled?
To date, coloured sands branded by Educational Colours (EC), Kadink and Creatistics have been recalled – these are sold by numerous retailers including Officeworks and Woolworths. ‘Active Sandtub’ and ‘Magic Sandtub’ products, sold at Kmart and Target, have also been recalled. As this is an evolving issue, more products and brands could be identified as being impacted.
Retailers are advising the community to dispose of any known product that they may have.
We can confirm that we have used no products that are suspected of asbestos contamination in any of our educational facilities.
How can I safely dispose of coloured sand products?
Items should be taken to an approved safety disposal facility. We cannot accept contaminated sand at our Resource Recovery Centre in South Melbourne.
To locate your nearest facility, visit the Australian Government’s Asbestos Safety Disposal Facility web page.
Disposal facilities noted on the website near Port Phillip include:
- Veolia – 890 Taylors Rd, Dandenong South
- Hansons Wollert Landfill – 55 Bridge Inn Road, Wollert
- Hi-Quality Sunbury – 570 Sunbury Rd, Bulla
How should I handle the sand?
The ACCC (Australian Competition and Consumer Commission) has instructed consumers to wear gloves, masks and disposable coveralls while dealing with the material. Products should be placed in a heavy-duty plastic bag, double taped to secure it safely and stored away from children before being taken to an approved facility.
More information
For further information, see the ACCC’s web page: Safe disposal and health information for consumers with recalled sand products.