The Danger of Artificial Turfby Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger 24 Feb 2009 06:26 PM
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a health advisory against artificial turf because it may contain high levels of lead that could pose a health hazard to humans. The high lead levels are more likely to be present in artificial turf that is made with nylon or a blend of nylon and polyethylene, although some lead seems to still be present in artificial turf that is made only with polyethylene. The other fact that was found is that older bits of artificial turf have higher lead levels than newer pieces. Lead being present in artificial turf can be present through lead dust that enters the air and settles through normal wear and tear of artificial turf. There are several precautions that should be made regarding artificial turf, especially with children. Hands and other body parts that are exposed to the artificial turf should be vigorously washed using soap and warm water. Children should never be allowed to crawl or play on artificial turf. If they do, they should take their clothing off by turning it inside out to avoid any skin contact with the lead dust. Clothes should be washed separately. Wash any toys that have come in contact with artificial turf. Shoes that have walked on artificial turf should be left outside to avoid tracking in any lead dust. Avoid eating while on artificial turf. Keep drinking cups in a bag or covered when near artificial turf. Personally, I think it is probably easier and wiser to avoid the stuff altogether. Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right. Related Articles: Reducing Your Child's Blood Lead Risk Learn more about Mary Ann Romans  Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat. Relevantbaby tags User Comments Kristin2009 (5) 25 Feb 2009 09:13 AMWhat gets lost in the discussion over the issue does not have to be: synthetic turf or no synthetic turf. As is the case in New York City and in cities and towns across the country, the concern is not with the turf itself, but rather the crumb rubber infill which comes from recycled car tires. There are organic alternative infill products that are completely safe and non-toxic and have been used across Europe and now in the U.S. The cost of these products is competitive with crumb rubber. At the International School of Boston, the first site in the U.S. to feature organic infill, the school nurse reports a two-thirds decline in injuries over the previous natural surface. What's more, organic infill can be up to 60 degrees cooler than crumb rubber infill on a hot day. Information about these alternatives can be found at www.geosafeplay.com.  Cat-Mom-of-3 (180) 25 Feb 2009 10:19 AMJust over a year ago I moved into a house that had artificial turf and have been contemplating removing since moving in. I guess I need to get on it now. Besides my kids, I also have a dog that runs on the "fake grass". Anyone have economical ideas on what to do if I rip it out? Thanks!!  Mary Ann Romans |
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