Precautionary Guidance Regarding Play Sand and Sand-Based Products
APAC would like to make students and practitioners aware of current UK safety alerts relating to certain play sand and sand-based products following concerns regarding possible asbestos contamination identified in some recalled items.
Several UK organisations, including the UK Government Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), NAHT, and education sector bodies, have issued precautionary guidance while investigations continue.
Useful information and updates can be found here:
- UK Government – Asbestos in Consumer Products
- UK Government – Testing for Asbestos in Sand Products
- NAHT Safety Alert
- NEU Guidance on Asbestos and Sand Products
Current information suggests that the recalls primarily relate to certain coloured craft sands, imported sensory products, and sand-based activity kits, rather than specialist therapeutic sand tray sand typically used within play therapy practice.
However, as a sensible precaution, APAC recommends that students and practitioners review the source of any sand-based materials currently in use and continue monitoring updates from official UK guidance.
As a precautionary measure, practitioners may wish to:
- Temporarily pause the use of loose play sand where there is uncertainty regarding the product source
- Avoid unnecessarily disturbing existing sand trays
- Check sand-based materials or sensory products against current UK recall notices
- Follow any guidance issued by workplaces, placement providers, local authorities, or public health teams
Current public health advice indicates that the overall risk to health is considered to be low. However, we believe it is important to take proportionate and informed precautionary steps while investigations remain ongoing.
APAC will continue to monitor updates and share further relevant information if required.
