More than 300 SA schools report having sand linked to asbestos recall
Moderated by Tomas Kauer 
More than 300 schools in South Australia have now reported having play sand linked to asbestos following a nationwide recall of the product.
Asbestos has been detected in some imported colourful "kinetic" sand used for play in state kindergartens, primary schools, high schools and early childhood centres.
The SA Department of Education said licenced asbestos contractors have now started removing recalled sand products from the venues.
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"At this time, more than 300 sites have contacted the department either to seek further advice, or to report sand products," the department said in a statement.
"The department is working closely with SafeWork SA, with the safety of students and staff the highest priority.
"The risk is low and is being managed in line with national standards and expert advice from SafeWork SA."
The company Spin Master Kinetic Sand, which said it owns the "kinestic" trademark, confirmed its products were not impacted by the recall.
"All Spin Master KINETIC SAND® products have undergone rigorous testing to ensure they meet all regulatory standards and are safe for use," the company said in a statement.
Yesterday afternoon, only 130 schools were reported to have recalled sand on-site.
A full list of the impacted schools is available on the Department of Education's website.
Across the country, 74 schools have so far been closed for assessment and cleaning.
This includes 72 public schools in the ACT, one independent school in Queensland, another independent school in Tasmania.
A further six Tasmanian schools were shut today over asbestos fears.
No schools were listed as closed in NSW or Victoria.
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A range of the brightly coloured children's sand products have been recalled due to asbestos fears.
Products have so far been recalled from Woolworths, Officeworks, Kmart and Target.
The products were recalled because they may contain tremolite asbestos, a naturally occurring asbestos, according to WorkSafe SA.
Customers have been told to stop using the products immediately and safely dispose of them.
"Wear disposable gloves and a mask and either return in the original tub or place the sand in a heavy-duty plastic bag and double tape it securely and keep it out of reach of children," the recall notice said.
There has been a ban and import prohibition for asbestos in Australia since 2003.
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