ECRU Sector Update

February 2026

Coloured Sand Products

Public Health and Waste Management Advice

National health authorities (enHealth) have released updated advice following testing of imported coloured sand products sold in Australia. Testing conducted by an accredited Australian laboratory has identified trace amounts of naturally occurring asbestos in a small number of products.

The Western Australian Chief Health Officer has confirmed that, based on laboratory results received to date, no respirable asbestos fibres have been detected. This means the risk to human health is assessed as very low.

Disposal Guidance

In line with current advice and reflecting the very low risk, the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) confirms that any remaining coloured sand products — including associated cleaning materials such as gloves, masks and cloths — should be:

1. Double‑bagged, and
2. Disposed of in normal household rubbish bins.

The Department of Health remains the lead agency for public health advice on this matter.

Further Information

• Full enHealth statement: enHealth advice – Asbestos contamination identified in imported coloured sand products | Australian Centre for Disease Control
• General information on waste regulation in Western Australia: Department of Water and Environmental Regulation