Hobbycraft has initiated a comprehensive recall of its children's coloured play sand, specifically the Giant Box of Craft set, following the discovery of asbestos contamination in some vials. The craft retailer has confirmed that the product poses a significant health risk, prompting immediate action to protect consumers.
Health Risks and Recall Details
The recall was issued after independent testing revealed that certain bottles within the set contained fibrous tremolite asbestos, a banned substance known to cause cancer if inhaled. Hobbycraft stated, "The product presents a risk to health as the vials of sand included in the set may be contaminated with a small quantity of asbestos. Asbestos is a banned substance because it poses a risk to health even at low levels of exposure." This finding led the company to declare that the product fails to meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.
Discovery and Initial Response
The contamination was first identified by a vigilant parent who, after their children played with the sand at a party, recognised potential issues from similar recalls in Australia and New Zealand. The anonymous customer paid for laboratory tests, which confirmed asbestos in three out of five bottles. Initially, Hobbycraft withdrew the product from sale but hesitated to issue a recall, citing a lack of warnings from UK authorities and no evidence of harm. However, subsequent independent investigations forced a reversal of this stance.
Safety Instructions for Customers
Hobbycraft is urging all customers who purchased the affected play sand to take immediate precautions:
- Stop using the product and keep it away from children.
- If the sand is still in its original packaging, place it in a heavy-duty plastic bag, seal it securely with double tape, label it clearly, and store it in a safe location out of children's reach.
- For sand that has been used, clean the area with wet cloths while wearing gloves and a mask to avoid dust generation, then double-bag the sand, gloves, mask, and cloths for disposal.
Parents can return the vials to any Hobbycraft store for a full refund or dispose of the sand in general household waste and contact the retailer for reimbursement.
Manufacturing and Regulatory Context
The contaminated play sand was manufactured in China, where regulations allow goods with less than 5% asbestos to be labelled as asbestos-free. A spokesperson for Hobbycraft explained, "Following independent testing of a children's sand product previously sold by Hobbycraft, traces of asbestos have been identified in a limited number of samples. In co-ordination with Trading Standards and the Office for Product Safety & Standards, we are voluntarily recalling the Giant Box of Craft with immediate effect." The company emphasised that this recall is a precautionary measure aligned with regulatory guidance and their commitment to product safety, and they are proactively contacting customers where possible.
Potential Health Implications
While asbestos exposure can lead to serious health issues such as cancer in later life, the risk to children who have played with the sand is currently assessed as low. Nonetheless, Hobbycraft's swift action underscores the importance of vigilance in product safety, particularly for items intended for young users. This incident highlights broader concerns about import regulations and consumer protection in the retail sector.
