Pine playground equipment and decking that has been treated with copper chrome arsenate (CCA) is to be banned in Australia amid concerns over the carcinogenic risk.
The Australian Pesticide and Veterinary Medicines Authority is even advising parents of young children to coat CCA-treated pine structures with sealant or prevent children from accessing them.
Dr David Loschke from the authority is recommending that structures are phased out rather than dismantled immediately.
However, the Timber Preservers Association of Australia said this is an overly cautious approach and that the levels of arsenic found in timber playground equipment are less than in a daily diet.
