Hobbycraft, the UK's leading arts and crafts retailer, has initiated a full recall of its children's coloured play sand products after confirming that some bottles contain asbestos, posing a significant health risk. The recall follows an investigation prompted by a customer's discovery and subsequent independent testing by the company.
Immediate Health Warning Issued
The retailer has stated unequivocally that the affected product, the Giant Box of Craft coloured play sand, "presents a risk to health" due to potential asbestos contamination. This development comes after initial hesitation from Hobbycraft to issue a recall, despite withdrawing the product from sale earlier.
How the Contamination Was Discovered
The alarming discovery was made by an anonymous parent whose children had played with the sand at a party. Recognising similarities to recalled products in Australia and New Zealand, the concerned parent paid for laboratory testing. The results revealed that three out of five vials in the Giant Box of Craft set contained fibrous tremolite asbestos, a banned substance known to cause serious health issues.
Hobbycraft's Response and Recall Procedure
After conducting its own independent tests, Hobbycraft has now implemented a comprehensive recall in coordination with Trading Standards and the Office for Product Safety & Standards. The company acknowledges that the product fails to meet the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.
Customers are instructed to:
- Stop using the sand immediately and keep it away from children
- If unopened, place the product in a heavy-duty plastic bag, double-tape it securely, label it clearly, and store it safely
- If used, clean the area with wet cloths while wearing gloves and a mask, then double-bag all contaminated materials
- Return the product to any Hobbycraft store for a full refund, or dispose of it in household waste and contact the retailer for reimbursement
Understanding the Health Risks
Asbestos exposure, even at low levels, can lead to serious health complications including cancer later in life. While the immediate risk to children who have played with the sand is considered low, Hobbycraft is taking precautionary measures to ensure customer safety. The affected play sand was manufactured in China, where products containing less than 5% asbestos can legally be labelled as asbestos-free.
Company Statement and Customer Communication
A Hobbycraft spokesperson confirmed: "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. We are voluntarily recalling the Giant Box of Craft with immediate effect."
The company emphasised that this recall is being undertaken as a precaution, in line with regulatory guidance and their commitment to product safety. Hobbycraft is proactively contacting customers where contact details are available and working closely with relevant authorities to manage the situation.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about product safety standards and the importance of rigorous testing for children's toys and craft materials. Parents and caregivers are urged to check their homes for the affected product and follow Hobbycraft's safety instructions without delay.
