Overview: Canberrans face school closures after asbestos discovery
Fifteen public schools in Canberra were closed on the day of reporting, with several more partially closed as a precautionary measure following the discovery of asbestos traces in recalled decorative coloured sand. The situation has prompted swift action from education authorities, health officials, and school leaders who are working to ensure student safety while mitigating disruption to learning.
Authorities say the risk is tied to a specific batch of decorative coloured sand that had been supplied for school art programs and community use. While initial tests detected chrysotile asbestos in some samples, officials emphasize that full exposure risk depends on the amount of asbestos encountered and the duration of exposure. Nevertheless, the prudent response has been to remove affected materials and temporarily close affected facilities to prevent any potential exposure.
What happened and why schools are closed
The recall and subsequent testing followed concerns that decorative sand products could contain asbestos fibers. Chrysotile asbestos, a common form used in some construction materials, poses health risks particularly when fibers become airborne. In schools, where children engage in art and craft activities, it is crucial to minimize any chance of inhaling dust from contaminated materials.
Education authorities have established a staged response: identify affected items, remove them from classrooms and playgrounds, conduct air and surface testing, and close facilities if there is any doubt about safe conditions. The decision to close 15 public schools is aimed at reducing risk while tests are completed and replacements or cleaning measures are arranged.
Impacts on students and families
For families, the closures mean changes to daily routines, with some students temporarily at home or relocated to other sites where possible. Schools have been providing clear instructions to parents about pickup times, alternate transport arrangements, and how students can continue learning remotely or through assigned activities during the disruption.
Local health authorities are advising that there is no need for panic, but they urge vigilance about symptoms and proper handling of any materials that may resemble the recalled sand. Officials say that the main priority is ensuring a clean, safe environment before students return to classrooms.
What you should know if your child attends a Canberra public school
Parents should monitor the school’s communications for the latest updates on closures, partial reopenings, and the availability of make-up sessions or alternative teaching arrangements. If your child’s school has partially reopened, be mindful that some areas may still be under restricted access and ongoing cleaning protocols.
Guidance from health authorities includes:
- Do not touch or disturb any sand or dust that might be contaminated.
- Wash hands after handling art materials and before eating.
- Do not bring home samples or materials from school that could be contaminated.
- Seek medical advice if there are concerns about exposure or unusual symptoms.
What comes next for Canberra schools
Officials expect a phased reopening plan as testing completes and cleaning is finalized. Replacement materials are being sourced, and schools are coordinating with contractors to ensure air quality is thoroughly checked. In the meantime, administrators are prioritizing transparent communication with families and staff to minimize disruption and reassure communities that steps are being taken to restore a safe learning environment.
Public health and safety take priority
The incident underscores how supply-chain issues and imported materials can intersect with school safety. While the situation is evolving, the central message from authorities is consistent: protect students and staff first, verify the extent of exposure, and proceed with remediation based on evidence from official testing.
