In a significant public health response, 69 schools across the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) will remain closed on Monday following the recall of colored play sand due to asbestos contamination risks. The recall, initiated by major retailers Kmart and Target on Saturday, was prompted by the discovery of asbestos traces in some product samples. The Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) has assessed the risk of asbestos becoming airborne as ‘low,’ but authorities are taking no chances. ACT Education Minister Yvette Berry confirmed that air testing across all schools has so far returned negative results for airborne asbestos. However, comprehensive inspections are ongoing and may take several days to complete. This development follows the partial or full closure of several schools and preschools in the region last Friday, triggered by similar asbestos concerns in sand products sold by Officeworks. The issue has also extended to New Zealand, where at least two schools are set to close for testing on Monday. Berry emphasized that the recalled sand products are more widely used in ACT schools than the Officeworks items, necessitating a broader response. Over the weekend, State Emergency Service volunteers and school staff conducted thorough inspections, mapping all colored sand in school premises. The ACT government has assured the public that individuals exposed to the products do not require clinical assessments, but the government is committed to eliminating risks ‘as much as reasonably practicable.’ Meanwhile, 23 schools will remain open, either due to minimal stock or the absence of the recalled products. The affected items include the Active Sandtub 14-piece Sand Castle Building Set and Blue, Green, and Pink Magic Sand. Asbestos, a hazardous material once commonly used in construction, can release toxic fibers when disturbed, posing long-term health risks such as cancer. Both Australia and New Zealand strictly prohibit the import or export of asbestos-containing goods.