NAHT has been made aware of a national safety issue relating to some products containing play sand and the potential presence of asbestos.

We understand from recent correspondence with local authorities that non-coloured sand for outdoor use that has been sourced in the UK via reputable suppliers and meets the relevant safety standards is unlikely to be affected. However, we still recommend that the health and safety team at the local authority or trust confirm this directly to members to ensure that this is the case as part of appropriate risk management practices.

Please note this guidance note has been revised from the version published on 13 May and 14 May 2026, and will be further updated as the situation evolves.

NAHT cannot provide specialist advice on the specific risks that may be associated with play sand.

However, members are advised to take the following precautionary steps when it comes to the use of play sand:

1. Check your setting:

• Identify whether you have any play sand on site (indoors or outdoors)
• Make a note of the following:

- The quantity of sand held
- The number of classrooms affected and a list of locations/areas where play sand is in use
- Supplier(s) and purchase details if known

(You should also follow any reporting requirements issued by your local authority.)

2. Inform the health and safety team at your local authority or trust
    
3. While members wait for advice from the health and safety teams at their trust and local authority, they can take a precautionary approach by ensuring play sand is covered (or removed if not disruptive and practically possible) and, importantly, not disturbed to minimise any potential risk. Larger areas such as playgrounds with play sand may need to be cordoned off temporarily.

Health advice

We understand this will be concerning. Current advice from public health partners indicates that:

• The risk to health is likely to be very low
• These measures are precautionary, designed to protect children and staff while investigations continue.

Next steps

• Follow updates from your local authority and trust
• Review your risk assessments and control measures
• We will continue to monitor this issue and share further guidance as more information becomes available.