The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) reported that four Kmart New Zealand products tested positive for tremolite, a form of asbestos linked to increased cancer risks. This discovery adds to the already significant recall that started last week with contaminated rainbow sand products commonly used in educational settings.
Ian Caplin, MBIE product safety spokesperson, acknowledged the concern this finding may cause families. Caplin advised, “Stop using them immediately, secure them safely, and contact your local council for guidance on safe disposal.”
The affected Kmart products are as follows:
– 14-piece Sandcastle Building Set
– Blue Magic Sand
– Green Magic Sand
– Pink Magic Sand
These newly identified products join the previously recalled sands from Educational Colours and Creatistics:
– EC Rainbow Sand (1.3kg)
– Creatistics Colored Sand (1kg)
The Ministry of Education has received numerous calls from schools and early childhood services, with over 120 facilities reporting the use of recalled sand products. Several centers have closed classrooms for asbestos assessments, with more closures expected as checks continue.
Sean Teddy, Head of operations and integration, advised schools not to handle or clean up colored sand themselves and to block off areas where the sand is present. He encouraged parents to contact Healthline if they have concerns.
Kapakapanui School in Waikanae and two Auckland Kindergartens have taken precautions due to potential contamination risks from indoor sensory play.
WorkSafe confirmed that tremolite is part of the amphibole family of asbestos, known for its cancer and autoimmune illness risks.
Caplin mentioned that Kmart has taken swift action with the recall but warned that more products in the market might be affected. Proactive testing of similar items is ongoing to ensure consumer safety.
Households are advised to follow MBIE’s instructions for handling contaminated sand:
– Stop using the product and keep children away.
– Secure the sand in an airtight container labeled “Asbestos-Contaminated Material.”
– Contact the local council for safe disposal.
– Seek a refund from the retailer under the Consumer Guarantees Act.
MBIE stressed the importance of taking contamination seriously in workplaces and schools using colored sands. Staff handling the product should evacuate the area and contact a licensed asbestos assessor for guidance.
Education facilities must inform the Ministry of Education if the sand has been used on-site to ensure proper handling and disposal.
