Primark recalls Halloween decorations over asbestos risk

Primark has issued an urgent recall for two Halloween gonk decorations due to concerns that the sand filling them may contain small amounts of asbestos. The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) warned that the banned substance poses serious health risks even at low levels of exposure.

The affected products are the Witch Mini (model 991174794, barcode 212047125) and the Pumpkin gonk (model 991179148, barcode 212080261).

Consumers are advised to stop using the items immediately and keep them away from children. Undamaged products should be placed in a heavy-duty, double-taped plastic bag and labeled clearly for return to any Primark store for a full refund, no receipt required. If a decoration is damaged and the sand is exposed, officials recommend wearing gloves and a mask, cleaning the area with a wet cloth to prevent dust, and double-bagging all cleaning materials. Those unable to return the items should contact local authorities for guidance on safe asbestos disposal.