We previously discussed the potential health-related dangers that recycled crumb turfs can pose to children and athletes that are active on them. Crumb rubber is used in the states for playground structures, sports surfacing, and rubber-modified asphalt, exposing many to the product every day and every year. At one point, soccer coaches in particular started reporting abnormally high rates of lymphoma in soccer goalies–those who come into contact most frequently with artificial turf hazards. Lymphomas in particular are strongly linked to environmental factors compared to other types of cancer.
Now (finally), U.S. government agencies are officially investigating artificial turf hazards and if they cause cancer. Specifically, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is concerned that no one has fully investigated the health concerns regarding artificial turf hazards and exposure. The EPA—along with other federal agencies—plans to release the results of their studies in the form of a report by late 2016. Of course, this effort concerns not only athletes and their coaches, but many parents as well who are seeking answers.
Specific Chemicals of Artificial Turf Hazards
Part of the studies that will be conducted will involve testing different types of tire crumb to look at what specific chemicals are released, and what exactly happens when someone comes into contact with them, including any other factors that could contribute to developing cancer as a result of that exposure. When experts refer to “crumb rubber,” they are talking about the recycled rubber made from old car tires that is used to fill in space between grass blades as part of the artificial turf. Artificial turf itself contains arsenic, hydrocarbons, heavy metals, mercury, lead, benzene, and other carcinogenic chemicals. These have been linked to the development of both leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, particularly in those who come into close, regular contact with the product.
Litigation
The California Attorney General filed a lawsuit alleging that these manufacturers—specifically, Beaulieu Group LLC, AstroTurf LLC, and FieldTurf USA Inc.—failed to warn the public about the artificial turf hazards being harmful. Specifically, the companies are accused of violating Proposition 65 for failing to warn people that the substance could cause both cancer and reproductive harm. Since, then, additional litigation has been filed against the biggest manufacturers of artificial turf products who, as a result, have promised to reduce the amount of lead, specifically, in the product.
Legal Representation in Toxic and Chemical Exposure
Although agencies are now investigating the link between exposure to artificial turf and the development of cancer, many have already been harmed by coming into contact regularly with this product.
If you have been diagnosed with cancer after being regularly exposed to artificial turf, we want to talk to you. Manufacturers are—more and more—facing fines and legal action over claims related to exposing the public to hazardous levels of carcinogens. Child athletes, in particular, could face higher risks for health problems associated with this product. If you or a loved one has become ill due to exposure to this substance, contact us at our New Orleans firm for a free consultation.