Feds Investigating Lead in Artificial Turf Fields

Washington, DC, April 17, 2008--The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is investigating potential hazards from lead in some artificial turf sports fields.

California State Sen. Abel Maldonado is calling for a state study comparing the public health and environmental impacts of synthetic and natural turf.

"These fields are a problem," Maldonado said Wednesday, also pointing to the possible risk of infection from turf burns. "Having (the CPSC) come up with a study is huge for me."

Synthetic playing surfaces are increasingly popular because they are durable and easy to maintain. But two fields in New Jersey were closed recently after state officials said they found high levels of lead in turf fiber samples.

New Jersey Deputy Health Commissioner Eddy Bresnitz said field users could potentially inhale or ingest dust contaminated with lead.

The Synthetic Turf Council estimates there are 3,500 artificial fields in the USA and that about 900 to 1,000 are installed each year.

President Rick Doyle accused New Jersey health officials of creating a "media storm" based on "incorrect criteria." Synthetic fields "do not represent a human health risk," Doyle said.

FieldTurf Tarkett, the largest supplier of synthetic turf, said its manufacturing process is different than other suppliers and its fibers do not contain heavy metals.