The Tasmanian Government says it is prioritising cleaning at schools impacted by the coloured sand recall to allow them to reopen as quickly and safely as possible.
Education Minister, Jo Palmer said the timing for reopening will be on a case-by-case basis.
“It will be determined by expert advice from an accredited asbestos assessor once all required cleaning is completed. Schools currently fully closed will be prioritised,” the Minister said.
“We are acting on expert asbestos advice and managing each school according to its specific needs.”
The Department for Education, Children and Young People will coordinate the safe collection and removal of any contaminated material, carried out by qualified specialists.
School principals are being provided direct support and guidance to ensure safety remains the focus at every school, said the Minister.
“All expert advice to date indicates the traces of asbestos fibres in the coloured sand presents a low-risk situation,” she said.
“We are taking a cautious and proactive approach to the safety of children and staff.
“The Tasmanian Government continues to follow advice from the ACCC, WorkSafe Tasmania Regulator, and independent expert advisors, and we are keeping schools and sites updated as new information comes to hand.
“I would like to thank families and school and education staff for their patience and understanding as we work through this process,” said Ms Palmer.
A list of impacted schools is available on the DECYPÂ website, which will be updated progressively. More information and advice about the recalled products is available at the ACCCÂ website.
