Asbestos Found in Children’s Magic Sand: What Every Childcare Centre Needs to Know
A recent product recall has revealed that certain children’s “magic sand” and kinetic-style sensory sands available in Australia may contain asbestos. Several batches have already been withdrawn from sale following laboratory findings that asbestos fibres could be present.
For childcare centres, preschools, day-care services, and OOSH providers, this issue requires urgent attention. Young children are especially vulnerable to asbestos exposure, and sensory play materials are handled in ways that can increase the risk of airborne fibres.
At Confluence Environmental, our team of Occupational Hygienists and Licensed Asbestos Assessors regularly investigate asbestos risks in unexpected products. Imported toys and sensory materials continue to be a known source of asbestos contamination, and this recall reinforces the need for caution and prompt action.
If your centre has purchased or used magic sand or similar sensory sand products within the last year, it is essential to address the risk now.
Why Asbestos in Magic Sand Is a Serious Concern
Magic sand and kinetic sand are designed to be moulded, squeezed, poured, and handled repeatedly. Fine material often transfers to hands, clothing, surfaces, and air during play.
If asbestos fibres are present, they can become airborne during:
normal play activities
tipping or pouring the sand
cleaning up spills
shaking out mats or carpets used beneath play trays
handling dry, degraded, or older sand products
Because asbestos-related health effects develop over decades, childhood exposure carries the highest lifetime risk. Even trace amounts of airborne fibres can present a long-term hazard.
Immediate Steps for Childcare Providers
1. Cease use of all suspect sand products immediately.
Remove magic sand, kinetic sand, and similar sensory materials from access.
2. Isolate and secure the material.
Do not empty or disturb it further. Place the product and any accessories (tubs, trays, moulds) into sealed containers or heavy-duty bags.
3. Arrange professional testing and assessment.
Testing is the only reliable way to determine whether asbestos is present.
This is where Confluence Environmental can assist.
How Confluence Environmental Can Help
Our team of Licensed Asbestos Assessors and Occupational Hygienists can attend your site promptly to manage the entire process from start to finish.
✔ On-site attendance and risk assessment
We visit your childcare centre, secure the product safely, and ensure no fibres are disturbed during handling.
✔ Safe collection of samples
Our consultants isolate the material and collect controlled samples for laboratory analysis.
✔ Asbestos identification testing
Samples are analysed through a NATA-accredited laboratory using polarised light microscopy (PLM) and dispersion staining to confirm whether asbestos fibres are present.
✔ Contamination testing where necessary
If the product has been used, spilled, or played with, we can undertake additional testing of surrounding areas, including:
carpets and soft furnishings
indoor hard surfaces
play mats and tables
dust wipe samples
vacuum contents
outdoor play areas
This determines whether any contamination has migrated to the environment or remained isolated.
✔ Clear, practical reporting and advice
We provide guidance on:
disposal requirements
whether cleaning or decontamination is required
communicating with staff and families
preventing future procurement risks
next steps for ensuring the environment remains safe
Our goal is to protect children, reassure staff and parents, and give your centre clear, defensible information.
Why Testing Matters
Even if your exact brand of magic sand has not appeared on a recall list, there is often overlap between overseas manufacturers and importers. Similar sensory products have previously tested positive for asbestos even before official recalls were issued.
Testing provides:
certainty
defensible documentation
reassurance for staff and families
evidence of due diligence
In early childhood settings, this level of certainty is essential.
Protect Your Centre - Act Now
If your childcare centre, preschool, or OOSH service has used magic sand or kinetic sand at any point in the last 12 months:
Do not wait for further recall updates.
Arrange testing and assessment now.**
Contact Confluence Environmental
Phone: 0493 042 642
Email: newcastle@confluence-enviro.com.au
Our Occupational Hygienists and Licensed Asbestos Assessors are ready to attend your centre, collect samples, undertake asbestos and contamination testing, and provide clear guidance on how to manage the situation safely and confidently.
Protecting children’s health requires timely action and Confluence Environmental is here to support you every step of the way.