In Ireland, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the statutory authority responsible for market surveillance, product safety enforcement, and product recalls in respect of toys and other consumer products. The CCPC operates independently in the performance of its statutory functions.
The CCPC has issued a number of recall notices for products where laboratory testing indicated that the sand may contain asbestos, as outlined on their website under 'Asbestos-related product recalls'. Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring minerals. It is a banned substance across the EU because it poses a risk to health. The asbestos may have entered the play sand as a natural occurring impurity due to its presence in the raw material from which the play sand was originally mined or processed. Current information indicates that sandpit sand is not affected by this issue. Where products available on the Irish market have been identified as potentially affected, the CCPC has acted by issuing product recalls or safety information notices, advising consumers to stop using the product immediately and follow safe disposal instructions.
Regarding the Smyths Toys recall of Dig Products, testing of all products was undertaken by Smyths Toys and the recall was business led. Testing of the ‘Gold Dig it Kit’ indicated the presence of asbestos. Another 10 products (10pcs Dig It Out Dinosaur Eggs, Gem Dig Kit 12 Gem Pack, Dig It Up Pirates 13 Treasure Set, Pocket Play Gold Treasure Chest , Gem Dig Kit 8 Pack) were confirmed to be of the same material, and were therefore not tested but recalled as a precaution without testing. Testing of the ‘Dino Dig Sensory Bin’ also indicated the presence of asbestos.
In all cases of asbestos reported in play sand products the HSE National Health Protection Office advice is that, consistent with other jurisdictions, there is low risk to human health based on current information. The HSE does not recommend clinical assessment for those who may have been in contact with these sand products.
My department will continue to be informed of relevant developments. The CCPC will continue to publish updates on its website as appropriate and will coordinate with national and international regulatory authorities as appropriate.
