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News Coverage

Future of Arsenic-Dosed Wood Hinges on Talks

Los Angeles Times, Wire Reports
Published February 1, 2002

Talks underway between federal regulators and lumber industry officials could result in wood decks, playground equipment and picnic tables treated with a preservative containing arsenic being taken off the market soon. The discussions focus on chromated copper arsenate, or CCA, a pesticide used to protect lumber from decay and insect damage. The Environmental Protection Agency implemented a rule last fall requiring labeling of all pieces of CCA-treated wood, also commonly found in railings, fences, posts and docks. Switzerland, Vietnam and Indonesia have banned CCA-treated wood. Japan, Denmark, Sweden, Germany, Australia and New Zealand have limited its use or proposed restrictions. The EPA has been preparing a comprehensive review of CCA-treated wood that could lead to more regulatory changes. That review will include an evaluation of how well the new consumer information programs are working.
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