News Coverage
Poison in the playground
Most home play sets and decks contain arsenic-treated wood
Published April 22, 2002
Whether you'd sunbathe on an arsenic-treated wood deck or watch your toddler eat dirt under a treated play set probably depends on your answer to this question: What is acceptable risk?
With most decks, play structures, docks and walkways built from arsenic-treated wood, it's a question most consumers must ask - and ultimately answer - themselves.
Maybe you remember the recent news stories about treated wood. The Environmental Protection Agency struck a deal with chemical manufacturers Osmose, Arch Wood Protection and Chemical Specialties in February to phase out production of the product for residential use by December 2003.
But while the agency noted arsenic is cancer-causing, it stopped short of recalling the wood immediately and didn't recommend people tear down existing arsenic-treated structures.
Huh?
It seemed as if the EPA was sending mixed messages.
With spring building season upon us, here's some more information to clarify the risks - and your options.
Q: What is arsenic-treated wood?
A: Chromated-copper-arsenate-treated lumber, known as CCA or arsenic-treated, is pressure treated with a mixture of arsenic, chromium and copper to protect it from rot, fungi and insects. It's been widely used for about 60 years for outdoor structures, such as decks, children's play sets, flower boxes and walkways.
Q: Why was arsenic-treated wood discontinued?
A: Industry officials and the EPA say it was to accommodate consumers, who are moving toward arsenic-free products. Environmental groups, who believe exposure could cause lung or bladder cancer, have lobbied and litigated against the product for years.
Q: When will it be gone?
A: No arsenic-treated lumber can be produced for most residential uses after the deadline, but retailers can still sell existing stock. The product will still be used for industrial structures, highway construction, siding and shingles.
Home Depot and Lowe's say they will beat the deadline, but how soon the wood is off the shelves of these nationwide chains depends on how quickly treatment plants can switch to nonarsenic processes. In the meantime, the retailers say warning labels will be tacked to each piece of lumber.
Q: How dangerous is arsenic?
A: Arsenic is a known human carcinogen linked to skin, bladder, lung and other cancers. It is also suspected to cause high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. Several people nationwide, including a Washington man who became seriously ill and suffered partial facial paralysis from arsenic poisoning he contracted through working with treated wood, have won lawsuits or settlements against chemical and wood-treating companies.
Q: What are the risks of skin contact with this wood?
A: All experts agree those working with treated wood should follow strict safety measures (see tips). But ask how dangerous it is to touch arsenic-treated wood and you'll get a wide range of opinions.