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If you need play sand asbestos testing, AEC provides fast, reliable laboratory analysis for play sand, coloured craft sand and kinetic sand. Our UKAS-accredited laboratory delivers results in 3 to 5 days, with testing priced at £40 + VAT per sample. This service is designed for consumers, retailers, distributors and manufacturers who need clear answers about possible asbestos fibres in sand-based products.
Asbestos fibres in play sand cannot be identified by sight, so the only dependable way to check for contamination is through professional sand sample asbestos testing. If you are concerned about a product used in toys, children’s products, decorative materials or bulk sand supplies, testing gives you a clear result and the confidence to act quickly.
Play sand is widely used in children’s products and decorative materials.
Even if it looks clean, asbestos fibres may still be present.
Testing confirms whether asbestos is in the material. It helps you decide what action to take.
Play sand asbestos analysis is the most reliable way to assess safety. It is essential when the source or quality of the sand is uncertain.
This sand asbestos testing service is suitable for:
If you are a consumer, read the consumer information page.
If you are a retailer or distributor, read the retailer information page.
We test a range of sand materials, including:
This service confirms whether asbestos fibres are present and supports fast, informed decisions.
Make sure your sample is securely packaged before sending it.
Once received, your sample is analysed using accredited methods.
You will receive a clear report. It will confirm whether asbestos fibres are present.
When you need sand contamination asbestos testing, you need speed, clarity and trust. This service delivers all three.
AEC provides reliable asbestos testing using UKAS-accredited methods.
Our service includes:
All testing is carried out in-house. This ensures consistent and reliable asbestos fibre analysis in sand samples.
For official guidance, see Testing for asbestos in sand.
For industry warnings, see Experts Warn of Asbestos-Contaminated Play Sand.
For public health insight, see Asbestos-contaminated children’s play sand: Assessing, mitigating and preventing the risk.
For news coverage, see Asbestos found in children’s play sand sold in the UK.
For more AEC insights, visit our Asbestos in Play Sand Consumer Information and Asbestos in Play Sand Retailer Information.
Use the booking form below to arrange your play sand asbestos testing sample.
Yes. Complete the booking form and send your sample to AEC by post. Make sure it is securely double bagged and clearly labelled.
Take a tablespoon-sized sample, place it in a clear sealable bag, then place that bag inside another bag.
Include your name and address inside the package.
You can send your sample to either laboratory:
Manchester Laboratory
23 Wheel Forge Way, Ashburton Point, Trafford Park, Greater Manchester M17 1EH
Essex Laboratory
Fernwood House, The Hillway, Brentwood, Essex CM15 0UE
Our laboratories are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
Yes. Both laboratories have a drop-off box at the entrance. Samples are collected at 8:30am on working days and processed after payment is confirmed.
You can drop off your sample at either our Essex or Manchester laboratory during opening hours or using the drop-off box.
The price is £40 + VAT per sample.
Results are typically available within 3 to 5 days after the sample is received.
We test play sand, coloured play sand, craft sand and kinetic sand for asbestos fibres.
If asbestos fibres are detected, stop using the material and follow appropriate safety guidance.
