How Toxic Is Pressure-Treated Lumber?
Prior to 2004, lumber manufacturers pressure-treated wood for outdoor construction with copper, chromium and arsenic (CCA) to protect it from insects and mold. However,concerns about toxicity led the lumber industry to voluntarily ban CCA lumber for residential use. Alternatives are now available. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
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EPA Recommendations
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The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognizes that CCA-pressurized wood poses health hazards, particularly to children. Arsenic and chromium exposure causes lung, bladder and skin cancer, asthma attacks, nose bleeds and other serious illnesses. However, the EPA does not recommend removing decks or play equipment made with CCA wood. Instead, the agency suggests using sealants and safety precautions such as hand-washing, to reduce risks.
Other Hazards
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The EPA does warn against burning pressurized CCA lumber since burning releases the arsenic and small amounts of ash or dust from a fire can be lethal. The agency also bans mixing CCA lumber in with municipal yard waste that is often ground up for mulch. The chemicals in CCA lumber eventually leach into and contaminate soil.
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Education
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While the EPA has not recalled any CCA wood products, other health organizations and watchdog groups are trying to educate consumers about toxic, pressure-treated wood. An alternative pressurized wood product made without arsenic, has been found to be highly corrosive to nails and screws, and some structures have collapsed as a result.
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References
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