Kmart Expands Recall After Asbestos Found in Magic Sand Products

The discovery of asbestos in multiple Magic Sand products sold by Kmart New Zealand has led to an expanded recall of these items. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) announced that tests revealed contamination with tremolite, a harmful form of asbestos linked to increased cancer risks, even at low exposure levels. This announcement follows an earlier recall initiated last week concerning rainbow sand products widely used in educational settings.

MBIE’s product safety spokesperson, Ian Caplin, expressed understanding of the concerns raised by this alarming finding. “We appreciate that the presence of asbestos in products that are used by children will be concerning to parents and caregivers,” he stated. He urged consumers to cease using the affected products immediately, secure them safely, and consult local authorities regarding proper disposal methods.

The affected Kmart products include:
– 14-piece Sandcastle Building Set
– Blue Magic Sand
– Green Magic Sand
– Pink Magic Sand

These newly identified items add to previously recalled products from Educational Colours and Creatistics, which include:
– EC Rainbow Sand (1.3kg)
– Creatistics Coloured Sand (1kg)

Potential Risk to Thousands of Children

The Ministry of Education has reported a significant increase in inquiries from schools and childcare services. Over 120 facilities have confirmed using one of the recalled sand products, with at least seven centers closing classrooms to allow licensed asbestos specialists to assess potential contamination. Sean Teddy, head of operations and integration at the Ministry, emphasized the need for caution, advising schools not to attempt cleaning up the sand themselves. “If the sand is loose or in use, leave the area immediately and block it off,” he said.

The use of these products for sensory play in indoor environments has raised concerns about the risk of airborne contamination. Kapakapanui School in Waikanae has relocated six classes while specialists conduct testing, and two Auckland kindergartens have also closed their doors.

WorkSafe has confirmed that tremolite is part of the amphibole family of asbestos, known for its needle-like fibers and stronger links to cancer and autoimmune diseases.

Further Testing and Consumer Guidance

Caplin noted that Kmart acted promptly in recalling the products but cautioned that additional products could still be implicated. “Proactive testing of similar products is underway,” he stated. Concerns have also been raised regarding similar sand products in Australia, suggesting potential issues within shared international supply chains.

MBIE has outlined several steps for consumers who have purchased the affected products:
– Cease use immediately and keep children away from the items.
– Store the sand in an airtight container, double-bagging it in thick plastic and labeling it as “Asbestos-Contaminated Material.”
– Avoid placing the contaminated sand in household rubbish or vacuuming any loose sand.
– Contact local councils for safe disposal guidance.
– Seek refunds from retailers under the Consumer Guarantees Act.

While MBIE has indicated that individuals who have handled the sand do not require urgent medical attention, it recommends contacting Healthline or a general practitioner if there are any concerns.

Educational institutions and workplaces utilizing these colored sands, including after-school programs and arts centers, have been instructed to halt all use immediately. Areas where the sand is loose should be evacuated, and staff should move to well-ventilated, sand-free zones. Clothing worn during exposure must be treated as asbestos waste, and facilities must notify the Ministry of Education regarding any use of the contaminated sand.

As investigations continue, authorities are emphasizing the critical importance of addressing potential contamination seriously to ensure the safety and well-being of children and staff alike.