The United Kingdom government has raised the alarm over potential asbestos contamination in sand-containing consumer products, including children’s toys and science kits.

The alert was issued in a joint statement by the Office for Product Safety and Standards, the UK Health Security Agency, and the Health and Safety Executive on Friday.

The UK government said, “There are a number of products subject to a recall because they have been found to contain small amounts of asbestos. Recalled products include craft kits, science kits, toys containing sand and decorative doorstops,” the UK government said.

“While regulatory and enforcement decisions are generally shaped according to the level of risk and the principle of proportionality, in the UK, there is a zero-tolerance approach to asbestos in consumer products.

“Asbestos use or importation has been banned since 1999, and the government is very clear – consumer products found to contain asbestos must be recalled. 

The UK authorities called for the urgent removal of any consumer products containing asbestos from sale and recall from consumers.

“This approach is reflective of our zero-tolerance approach.  It is not an indication of the level of risk to any consumers,” the UK government said, adding, “The risks relating to asbestos exposure are well known, but the presence of asbestos in a consumer product does not always mean there is an immediate danger to health.”

The UK government said it is committed to protecting the public and will continue to monitor the situation, ensure businesses take appropriate action, and update advice to the public as and when appropriate.