Asbestos and your health

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of many small fibres. These fibres are very strong and are highly resistant to heat, fire, chemicals and wear.

Asbestos in the home

If you think you might have asbestos in your home, your public health service can advise you on how to deal with it.

Dealing with asbestos

If you find asbestos in your home, there are options including leaving it as it is and not disturbing it, sealing, encapsulating or enclosing it, or removing it.

Asbestos in sand

Find out how to clean up and dispose of sand products that have been recalled because they are found to be contaminated with asbestos.

Health advice – Recall of coloured sand products containing asbestos

Health New Zealand and the Ministry of Health have been informed by the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) that some coloured sand products available for sale in New Zealand have been found to contain asbestos.

If anyone has used the coloured sand products listed on this page, there is no need for urgent medical attention. People can call Healthline free anytime on 0800 611 116 to discuss any health concerns they may have. Healthline can advise if you, a child or a family member needs to see a healthcare professional for review.

Visit Product Safety New Zealand for details about the recalled colour-sand products.

Recalled products — Product Safety New Zealandexternal link

If you have one of these products at home, it is recommended that you stop using them, secure them and dispose of them safely.