Overview
- UK product-safety authorities say some sand vials in the Giant Box of Craft may contain a small quantity of asbestos and warn that exposure poses a health risk even at low levels.
- The affected kit is a 1,000-piece Hobbycraft set containing coloured sand, identified as product number 6686021000.
- A parent triggered the action after sending samples to an accredited lab, reporting three of five colours tested positive for fibrous tremolite asbestos.
- Hobbycraft removed the item from sale, issued a voluntary recall in coordination with Trading Standards and OPSS, is contacting customers, and reports no evidence of injury; refunds are being offered in stores or after safe disposal.
- OPSS guidance advises wet cleaning to avoid dust, use of gloves and a mask, double-bagging materials, and either returning vials to stores or disposing of them as directed; the kit was manufactured in China, and similar recalls were reported in Australia and New Zealand.