Pressure treated timber which has been treated with CCA (copper, chrome and arsenic) has recently been withdrawn under EU regulations after concerns that it could cause a risk to children playing in sandpits.

Although the chemicals are toxic, it had been thought that they were not a particular health hazard as the risk of them leaching into soil was considered minimal.  But new research suggests that timber used adjacent to children's sandpits could be eroded by the sand resulting in fine particles which could be inhaled.

Any pre-existing timber which was treated with CCA is considered safe to continue using, but timber purchased after 30th June 2004 will be treated with a copper based alternative containing organic fungicides.

For more information, contact the British Wood Preserving and Damp Proofing Association.