More than 30 children’s toys have been recalled in the UK after it was discovered that play sand sold by Hobbycraft was contaminated with asbestos. The affected products, which include candle-making kits and stretchy rubber toys, were sold by retailers such as Tesco, Primark, Matalan and M&S.
Asbestos, which can cause cancer if inhaled, is banned in the UK in any quantity. The contaminated sand is believed to originate from Chinese mines where asbestos fibres occur naturally and labelling rules are less stringent. The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued an advisory note for traders on reliable testing methods, following a surge in requests from manufacturers.
The consumer group Which? criticised the safety checks, calling for stronger action. “The Office for Product Safety and Standards needs to take action and ensure proper checks are being carried out to keep dangerous products off the shelves,” said Sue Davies, head of consumer protection policy. She also raised concerns about online marketplaces with limited regulation.
Post-Brexit laws have shifted responsibility to exporters and retailers to test goods and inform the OPSS if asbestos is found. The government stated it is up to companies to ensure safety. Kate Dearden, minister for product safety, said: “It is staggering toys are being sold with asbestos. We’re taking action with new measures to strengthen consumer protection and clamp down on irresponsible sellers.”
