A-Turf Stands Behind the Safety of its Fields

Thank you for turning to A-Turf to better understand the facts regarding the recent media coverage pertaining to the safety of synthetic grass turf. A-Turf is in no way connected with the fields in question. But, because certain sound bites, headlines and images used by the media to report a story sometimes leads to misinformation and premature conclusions, we feel it is important to be very clear about the facts. A-Turf, a member of the Synthetic Turf Council, is committed to providing safe, environmentally friendly surfaces for our clients nationwide. We appreciate this opportunity to share a few facts about A-Turf and the synthetic turf industry.

• The Synthetic Turf Council (STC) and the synthetic turf industry take the health, safety and welfare of synthetic turf users very seriously, and set high safety standards for its products.
• “There is no scientific evidence of a health risk for children or adults based on recent test results and current knowledge of the chemical structure of aged synthetic turf products,” Dr. David Black, Ph.D. Forensic Toxicology and Dr. Davis Lee, Ph.D. Synthetic Organic Chemistry.
• “Available evidence suggests that there are no acute health risks due to use of artificial turf fields, and risk due to chronic and repeated exposure are unlikely,” New Jersey Department of Health & Senior Services. (Statement release on April 14, 2008)
• In response to the closure of the three New Jersey fields, seven additional fields (made with polyethylene fibers) were tested for heavy metals, including lead. The New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services found no lead. All seven fields were ruled safe.
• In the fields where lead was found, the lead level had minimal-to-zero bioavailability. Low bioavailability means that even in the unlikely event the compound were to be ingested, it is very difficult for it to be absorbed within the body.
• Lead chromate, which has been used to extend the life of paint color in nylon, polyethylene and polypropylene, is encapsulated in plastic to prevent it from being absorbed by the body, or released into the environment.
• OSHA does not require protective measures for turf manufacturers who handle turf fibers.

A-Turf is a member of the synthetic Turf Council, which represents the U.S. synthetic turf industry. We encourage to read more on this topic by visiting the Synthetic Turf Council’s website at www.syntheticturfcouncil.org. For specific questions pertaining to A-Turf’s safety record please contact A-Turf directly at 888-777-6910