Hobbycraft recalls children’s product with ‘traces of asbestos’

Hobbycraft is recalling a children’s box of craft supplies over concerns that it could be contaminated with asbestos. The product, a box of mixed art supplies called the Giant Box of Craft, includes vials of colourful sand supplied in the box that may contain substance.

The craft retailer has stated that traces of asbestos were detected in some samples and have now withdrawn the kit from their stores. They said: “The product presents a risk to health as the vials of sand included in the set may be contaminated with asbestos.

“Asbestos is a banned substance because it poses a risk to health even at low levels of exposure. Health effects from asbestos generally occur many years after long-term inhalation of very small fibres. Testing to date indicates that there is Trace Asbestos Detected in some samples tested.”

Hobbycraft is now asking any customers who have bought the craft box to “stop using the product immediately” and keep it out of the reach of children. 

If the sand is still unopened in its packaging, then it should be placed in a heavy-duty plastic bag, securely doubled taped, labelled clearly and then stored in a secure location. 

Anyone that has opened the sand should clean up the area it was used with a wet cloth to avoid generating dust.

It is also important to wear a mask and gloves while cleaning the sand, and then double bag the cloths, gloves and mask. 

Customers are being asked to keep people away from the area the sand was until it has been cleaned and also return the product to the nearest Hobbycraft store for a full refund.

However, anyone not able to get to a Hobbycraft store can also get in contact with them for a refund. 

For further information, call the Hobbycraft customer service at 0330 026 1400 or get in touch through the website at www.hobbycraft.co.uk/recall. 

Asbestos is a mineral that is dangerous to inhale as it can damage lungs over time and been linked to cancer later in life, but it is believed the risk to children who have played with the sand is low. The product was made in China, where item containing less than five percent asbestos can be labelled asbestos-free. 

A Hobbycraft spokesman said: “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. In coordination with trading standards and the Office for Product Safety and Standards, we are voluntarily recalling the Giant Box of Craft with immediate effect.

“This recall is being undertaken as a precaution, in line with regulatory guidance and our own commitment to product safety. We are in the process of proactively contacting customers where we have their contact details.”