Action for all settings: Review water beads product safety alert

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has issued a Product Safety Alert to warn of the risks that water beads pose to children and vulnerable adults.

The alert advises that water beads should be kept away from children under five, and only used with older children or vulnerable adults under close supervision. They are marketed for various purposes, including for use as toys and in crafting. Water beads can expand up to 400 times when exposed to liquid.

When swallowed, they expand and can block the gastrointestinal passage, potentially requiring surgery. They can also cause choking and have harmed children in the UK, with reports linking them to deaths overseas. 

If it is suspected that a water bead has been swallowed, medical help should be sought immediately.

Kind regards,

Adam Farrington

Head Teacher

Shifnal Primary School 

Tel: 01952 460500