If you have a budding artist at home, you are likely familiar with the mesmerising world of sand art. It is a quiet, creative, and colourful way to keep little hands busy. However, a recent safety announcement regarding a popular craft set has many parents clearing out their hobby cupboards this week.
Modern Brands Pty Ltd has issued a nationwide recall for their Sand Art Bottle kit (Item code: MND4232). While the product has been a staple for creative play, recent laboratory testing has uncovered a substance that simply has no business being in a toy box: asbestos.
The Details: What is the Risk?
The mention of asbestos is enough to make any homeowner or parent feel a little uneasy. In this instance, the substance (which is strictly prohibited in Australia) was detected within the coloured sand bags included in the kit.
Before we panic and call in a hazmat team, it is important to look at the specifics of the health risk. Expert testing indicates that “respirable” asbestos (the kind that becomes airborne and is easily inhaled was not detected in the samples). In its current state, the sand is unlikely to release dangerous fibres unless it is crushed, pulverised, or mechanically processed.
While the risk of inhalation remains low, the mere presence of the material is a significant safety breach. When it comes to children’s products, “low risk” is still a risk that neither the ACCC nor Modern Brands is willing to take.
Identifying the Affected Kits
Not every sand art kit on the shelf is part of this recall. To see if your home collection is affected, you will need to turn the bottle over or check the packaging near the barcode.
The recall specifically targets SKU 14232. You can find the batch number located to the right of the barcode or on the bottom of the bottle. The affected batch numbers are:
- DFT19326
- DFT20136
- DFT20170
- DFT20225
- DFT20251
- DFT21081
- DFT21202
- DON23180
What Should You Do Next?
If you find one of these numbers on your kit, the first step is simple: stop using it immediately. Even if your child is halfway through creating a masterpiece, it is time to put the lid on and move it out of reach.
Disposing of asbestos-contaminated material isn’t as simple as tossing it in your regular wheelie bin. The ACCC and the Asbestos and Silica Safety and Eradication Agency have specific guidelines to ensure these products are handled safely.
To get your money back, you will need to contact your place of purchase with proof of purchase. However, ensure you follow the safe disposal guidelines provided on the ACCC Product Safety website before transporting or handling the sand.
Staying Informed
The ACCC is currently working alongside state and territory health agencies to monitor the situation as it evolves. For those concerned about health implications, the Environmental Health Standing Committee (enHealth) provides updated information via the official Product Safety portal.
While it is a disappointing end to a craft afternoon, keeping our homes free of prohibited materials is always the priority. For further enquiries, you can reach out to Modern Brands directly at recalls@modernbrands.com.au.
