Questions & Answers - Arsenic and Chromium

What is Arsenic and Chromium?
Arsenic and Chromium are scientifically known as chromated copper arsenates (CCA) and are commonly found in some wood preservatives. These preservatives protect wood from rotting, fungus, molds, termites and other pests.

Why are they considered dangerous?
Until recently, it was a common practice to use wood preservatives that contain CCA\'s on wooden playground equipment. State and federal health officials have recently determined that these chemicals are dangerous and high levels of CCA\'s can cause cancer. The EPA is currently researching what is considered safe levels of arsenics, and will determine what will be continued use of CCA\'s.

What is the danger to children using the playgrounds treated with Arsenic and Chromium?
Health officials have found that the maximum acceptable level of CCA\'s in wood preservatives is .08 parts per million. This simply means that children would have to be exposed to very high levels of CCA\'s to be a risk for cancer. The area of more concern is that CCA\'s used in wood is easily leached out of the wood into the ground where arsenics are already commonly and naturally found. This is an area of concern that again the EPA is researching.

How can I tell if my playground equipment contains chromated copper arsenates?
A small sample of the wood and soil is gathered and submitted to a testing laboratory to determine the levels of CCA\'s

What should I do if my equipment has been found to contain chromium and arsenic?
Although research is still inconclusive, to be safe playground owners and operators should begin investigating replacement of equipment. Purchasing metal and plastic playground equipment will insure that there will be no CCA\'s.

Call toll free at 1-866-332-3133 or email info@playgroundmedic.com

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