Why the ACT has gone further than other jurisdictions in closing schools over coloured sand asbestos concerns

While there's a national recall for coloured sand products over asbestos contamination concerns, only the ACT has gone so far as to close public schools while it cleans up the products.

Nearly 70 Canberra schools are shut today after more coloured sand products were recalled over the weekend.

So why are schools closed in the ACT when other states and territories haven't taken the same action?

Why has the ACT closed schools?

In a situation reminiscent of the COVID pandemic, the states and territories have gone their own way in handling the issue.

Last week, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) issued a national recall notice for coloured sand products following laboratory testing that detected traces of chrysotile — a type of naturally occurring asbestos.

That pr