Dangers of Treated Wood Documented

February 10, 2003
A report prepared for the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) warns that millions of children and adults face an increased risk of bladder and lung cancer from playing and eating on wooden playground sets and decks.

It is the first formal acknowledgement by a federal agency that there are serious health risks associated with the pesticide-treated wood that's been in common use in playgrounds and residential decks since the 1970s. The pesticide used to repel termites and other pests contains a form of arsenic, a known carcinogen, which "bleeds" from the wood.

The pesticide is being phased out beginning next year but its effects will be felt for years.

The report estimates that from 2 to 100 individuals per one million will get bladder or lung cancer from their exposure to the arsenic. Children are at the most risk of exposure, since they are more likely to put their hands in their mouths after touching the wooden surfaces.

The cancers generally take decades to develop so many of those exposed as children will not become ill until they are adults.

The report recommends that parents require their children to wash their hands after playing on wooden playground sets and recommends that eating be discouraged on or near arsenic-treated wood.

Nearly all wooden decks, landscaping timbers and playground sets are treated with the arsenic-containing substance. Cedar and redwood resist rot and termite infestation without being treated but they are not used as frequently because of their much higher cost.

The CPSC and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are testing various sealants that might be used to make existing structures safer.

The CPSC will use the scientists' report to consider whether additional safety measures should be taken. Recommendations could range from regular applications of sealant to removal of existing playground sets.

Safety Measures

In the interim, there are several steps consumers can take to minimize risks from arsenic-treated wood:

• Don't burn it. Wood used as landscaping timbers, fence posts or in decks and playgrounds should never be burned in a fireplace, furnace or outdoor fire, as burning releases arsenic into the air, water and soil. Consumers should contact local government agencies to find out how to dispose of the wood.
• Require that children wash their hands after playing on wooden playground sets.
• Don't serve food on or around treated wooden structures.
• If buying wood for a construction project, check with the manufacturer to ensure that it is free of arsenic. Consider using cedar or redwood instead.
• If buying playground equipment, consider using aluminum structures.

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