Artificial Turf Causes Concerns at Schools
Recent reports express concern regarding the artificial turf that is often used at football fields at many of the country's high schools and colleges. One person discovered there could be risks first hand as he researched whether or not to order turf for the high school he works for. He still awaits the results of studies being conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) before he is going to take any action, or risks.
Turf: Safe or Toxic?
John Murray recently did some shopping, and research, for an artificial-turf field for Camden Catholic High School. What he found instead of a new field, was information that would make his decision a hard one.
According to Murray he came across piles of documents regarding the toxic chemicals, such as benzene, that could be found in the ground-up tires. These tires are reportedly used so the turf has enough cushioning.
Still Waiting on the EPA
It's been over a year since the EPA initially began looking into the risks behind turf and the effects it may have on children.Though they have yet to make a clear conclusion on whether turf can serve as a haven for benzene exposure or not. Meanwhile, sstatistics show that an estimated 800 turf fields continue to open throughout the country each year. at roughly 800 a year.
Many wonder why the EPA is stalling on their studies.
"If safeguarding children's health is a top priority at EPA, why can't this multibillion-dollar agency afford to take a hard look at what is in our playgrounds, schoolyards and athletic fields?" says Jeff Ruch, the director of Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER).
Until a clear answer becomes evident and publicized, Murray intends to be cautious in his decision regarding Camden's football fields and feels others should take the same precaution.
