The use of END OF LIFE TYRES (ELT)-derived granules in
synthetic turf pitches has recently received high public attention in a number
of EU countries.
Concerns have been raised because of the presence of
carcinogenic chemicals and the human health risks associated with using these
pitches.
The current permissible concentration limits applicable
for supply to the general public are set at 100 mg/kg for two of the eight
polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons PAHs relevant to the proposal and 1 000 mg/kg
for the other six.
Given these current applicable concentration limits, the
restriction proposal identifies how an unacceptable risk to human health would
arise as a consequence of the use of PAH-containing granules and “mulches” as
infill material in synthetic turf pitches and in loose form on playgrounds and
in other sports applications. In addition, the risks to workers has been
considered.
The proposed restriction outlines that the
suggested concentration limit would ensure the cancer risk from PAH exposure
remains very low for those coming into contact with granules and “mulches”. The proposal aims at alleviating societal concerns about
the possible negative health impacts resulting from the use of infill material
containing PAHs in artificial sports pitches.
The IOG is contributing to this open consultation and in doing so in particular we ask you to complete this very short 1 to 3 question survey (depending on your response), based on the following enquiry: “Do you have any
information on the current practices and measures used to control worker
exposure during the installation and maintenance of synthetic turf pitches,
playgrounds, or in other applications?”
The survey can be
taken here.
