Primark has issued an urgent recall of two Halloween decorations due to potential asbestos contamination. The HV Pumpkin Plush Gonk and HW Mini Gonk may pose a health risk because the sand inside them could be contaminated with a small quantity of asbestos, according to the Government’s Office for Product Safety and Standards.
Products withdrawn and refunds offered
The retailer has withdrawn the products from sale and is urging customers to stop using them immediately. Shoppers can return the items to any Primark store for a full refund, and no receipt is required. The affected gonks feature either a pumpkin or witch hat, with grey hair, and form part of Primark’s Halloween range.
The decorations were manufactured in China and sold across the UK. The recall was notified by Local Authority Trading Standards, and the products do not comply with the General Product Safety Regulations 2005.
Health risks and handling instructions
Asbestos is banned in the UK and can pose serious health risks even at low levels of exposure. Customers are advised to keep the products out of reach of children and to follow specific handling instructions. If the item is undamaged, it should be placed in a heavy-duty plastic bag, sealed, and returned to a Primark store.
If the product is damaged and the filling is exposed, customers should avoid creating dust, clean the area with wet cloths, and seek guidance on safe disposal. A spokesperson for West Midlands Fire Service said: "Stop using this product immediately and keep out of reach of children. Follow the recall instructions for details on disposal and/or return of the product."
Impact on consumers
The recall affects products sold across the UK, and customers can return them without a receipt. Primark has withdrawn the items from its Halloween range, and the Office for Product Safety and Standards is overseeing the recall process. Consumers are urged to act promptly to ensure their safety.
