Tasmanian Catholic Schools Close Amidst National Asbestos Scare in Coloured Sand
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A nationwide recall of coloured sand products due to the presence of asbestos has prompted the closure of at least six tasmanian Catholic Education schools and partial closures of three others, beginning Tuesday, November 18. The swift action follows a national notice issued last week after traces of the risky material were detected, triggering widespread concern and precautionary measures across the country.
Widespread Disruptions to Tasmanian Education
The closures impact a important number of students and families across Tasmania. According to a statement released by Catholic Education, several classrooms are currently unavailable as risk assessments are conducted.The following schools will be fully closed on Tuesday:
- corpus Christi Catholic School, Bellerive
- Sacred Heart Catholic School, Geeveston
- St Brigid’s Catholic School, Wynyard
- St John’s Catholic School, Richmond
- St Peter Chanel Catholic School, Smithton
- St Cuthbert’s Catholic School, Lindisfarne
Additionally, the following schools will operate with partial closures:
- Sacred Heart College, New Town (Kindergarten through 5th grade closed)
- St Aloysius Catholic College, Kingston (Kindergarten through 4th grade closed)
- Immaculate Heart Catholic School, Lenah Valley (Kindergarten and Prep classes closed)
“Classrooms will remain closed while assessments are underway. As these spaces are essential for normal school operations, some schools will need to close temporarily while the risk assessment takes place,” Catholic Education stated. Schools are actively communicating with families to provide updates on the evolving situation.
ACT takes Most Stringent Action
The response to the asbestos contamination has varied across Australian jurisdictions. The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) has taken the most drastic step, closing a total of 70 schools as a precaution. The reason for the ACT’s more extensive closures remains unclear, prompting questions about differing risk tolerance levels and assessment protocols.
Reassurances and Ongoing Assessments
Gerard Gaskin, executive director of Catholic Education Tasmania, acknowledged the disruption to families. “Catholic Education Tasmania is working to resolve the situation as quickly and safely as possible,” Dr. Gaskin said. He further emphasized that, while expert advice suggests the risk to students and staff is low, every precaution is being taken to maintain safe school environments.
“Our communities can be confident that we are acting quickly, carefully and in alignment with professional guidance,” Dr. Gaskin added. Further information and updates will be published on the Catholic Education Tasmania website.
Expanded News Report:
Why did the schools close? schools across Tasmania, and nationally, closed due to a nationwide recall of coloured sand products found to contain asbestos. The closures are a precautionary measure to assess and mitigate any potential health risks to students and staff.
Who was affected? At least six Tasmanian Catholic Education schools were fully closed,and three others operated with partial closures,impacting numerous students and families. The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) was most affected, closing 70 schools. Catholic Education Tasmania, led by Executive Director Gerard Gaskin, is managing the situation.
What happened? A national notice was issued after asbestos traces were detected in coloured sand, prompting widespread concern. Schools began conducting risk assessments, leading to temporary closures of classrooms and, in some cases, entire
