Primark recalls Halloween decorations over asbestos contamination

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 7 Oct, 11:14 · Archive

Primark has recalled two Halloween decorations after the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) identified potential asbestos contamination in the sand inside the products. The recalled items are the Witch Mini (model 991174794, barcode 212047125) and Pumpkin gonks (model 991179148, barcode 212080261). The decorations do not comply with the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.

Asbestos is a banned substance known to pose serious health risks even at low levels of exposure. The OPSS said: 'The products have been withdrawn from the market and recalled from end users by Primark. We recommend owners stop using the product immediately and keep out the reach of children.' Asbestos exposure can lead to life-threatening conditions such as asbestosis, which causes breathing difficulties and can enlarge the heart. Asbestos-related diseases are believed to cause around 5,000 deaths each year in the UK.

Customers are being told to stop using the products immediately and return them to any Primark store for a full refund. If the product is undamaged, it should be placed in a heavy-duty plastic bag, double taped, clearly labelled, and stored safely out of reach of children until it can be returned.

If the decoration is damaged and the sand filling is exposed, shoppers should clean the surface where it was kept with a wet cloth to prevent dust. They are then advised to wear gloves and a mask, and place the product, gloves, mask, and cloth in a double bag before disposal. Shoppers are being urged to wear protective equipment when handling or disposing of the recalled items.

How it is being reported

• Primark recalls Halloween toys over possible asbestos contaminationThe Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued an urgent alert about the potential contaminationTelegraph & Argus · 7 Oct, 11:03
• Primark recalls Halloween toys over possible asbestos contaminationThe Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued an urgent alert about the potential contaminationWharfedale Observer · 7 Oct, 11:03
• Primark recalls Halloween toys over possible asbestos contaminationThe Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued an urgent alert about the potential contaminationKeighley News · 7 Oct, 11:03

In this story: Primark · Office for Product Safety and Standards · Bradford

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