www.stma.org July 2016 | SportsTurf 39
regarding the California Synthetic Turf Study and inquired if
carbon black nanoparticles in crumb rubber were going to be
assessed as part of the Synthetic Turf Study. The question was
presented because, as previously noted, nanoparticle testing
was not refl ected in the recent Yale University study nor was it
in a previous crumb rubber study conducted by CalRecycle in
2010. TPI also made inquiries as to who assisted OEHHA in
establishing their guidelines for the proposed study because it
is important for the credibility of the study that it be science-
based and that numerous sports turf and parks and recreation
professionals and scientists provide input.
On the issue of nanoparticle research we received a prompt
response from Patty Wong, PhD, Senior Toxicologist, Chief,
Special Investigations Section, Pesticide and Environmental
Toxicology Branch Offi ce of Environmental Health Hazard
Assessment, who wrote: "OEHHA has received several
suggestions on the concerns of carbon black from crumb
rubber. We are in the process of collecting public input on the
study. We are compiling the public input for review by the
Synthetic Turf Scientifi c Expert Panel. The Panel will advise
the project plan. In the meantime, any specifi c input or your
thoughts on how these substances should be investigated will
be helpful and appreciated."
TPI forwarded Dr. Wong a substantial list of past and more
recent studies related to nanoparticles research which contained
the names of numerous research scientists and/or research-
related fi rms who have, or who are now, exploring this issue.
In addition to health consequences that might be related to
chemicals released from crumb rubber, concern persists about
the heat given off by artifi cial fi elds and the health risks that the
heat poses to athletes and children.
OEHHA expects to report their results in 2-3 years.
UNANSWERED QUESTIONS
Numerous professional groups are identifying the need for
additional research on the safety of crumb rubber; specifi cally,
carbon black nanoparticles. These professional groups not only
include the scientifi c community, but insurance professionals
and attorneys.
At the 2015 Annual Meeting of The Federation of Defense
& Corporate Counsel (FDCC), an organization composed
of recognized leaders in the legal community dedicated to
pursuing the course of a balanced justice system and represent
those in need of a defense in civil lawsuits, did a presentation
titled, "Nanotechnology: the challenge of insuring against a
multi-faceted and poorly understood latent exposure." The
presentation went to considerable length to state that further
research about nanotechnology is needed.
The information the authors presented it the FDCC Annual
Meeting suggested that in the not too distant future, it's
conceivable that manufacturers and possibly communities will
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