The beach was closed on Friday, 29 July, after laboratory analysis identified asbestos fibres on small pieces of material picked up during an inspection and by a member of the public.
A specialist contractor has been appointed and on-site works have begun to remove and analyse any additional hazardous material, as well as investigate the source of the contamination.
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The council is working alongside the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA), NHS Ayrshire & Arran and expert scientific advisors to deal with the issue.
Mike Newall, Head of Neighbourhood Services, said: "We are actively investigating the source of this material in conjunction with our specialist contractor.
"While investigations are in progress and until a full scientific risk assessment can be carried out, the beach has been closed as a precaution."
Dr Elvira Garcia, Consultant in Public Health Medicine for NHS Ayrshire & Arran, added: "Until we know more about the material on Prestwick Beach, and any potential impact on public health, the precautionary beach closure will minimise the likelihood of exposure."
(LM/CD)
