An urgent recall has been issued after traces of asbestos was found in a children’s product sold by the popular store Hobbycraft.
The dangerous and sometimes deadly substance was detected in the Giant Box of Craft, which has the item code 6686021000.
The retailer said the product presents a risk to health because the vials of sand included in the set may be contaminated with asbestos.
The recall is being carried out in the interests of customer safety and in line with the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.
Asbestos is a banned substance due to the health risks it poses, even at low levels of exposure.
Health effects are generally associated with long-term inhalation of very small fibres and may take many years to develop.
Testing carried out so far has indicated that trace asbestos has been detected in some of the samples tested.
Customers are advised to stop using the product immediately.
If the sand is still in its packaging, it should be placed in a heavy-duty plastic bag, double taped securely, clearly labelled and stored in a secure location out of the reach of children.
Where the sand has already been used, affected areas should be cleaned using wet cloths to avoid generating dust. Gloves and a mask should be worn during the clean-up.
The sand, along with any gloves, masks and cloths used, should be double bagged. Children and others should be kept away from the area until it has been fully cleaned.
Customers can return the sand vials from the product to their nearest Hobbycraft store for a full refund.
Those unable to visit a store are advised to follow the safety instructions and dispose of the sand in their general household waste, before contacting Hobbycraft to arrange a refund.
Anyone seeking further information or wishing to check whether their product is affected can contact Hobbycraft’s customer service team on 0330 026 1400.
