FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 12, 2003
Contact: Brad Berven or Alison Squires (605) 773-4432 or (800) 228-5254

Residential Uses of CCA Treated Wood Cancelled

(Pierre, SD) – Registrants of chromated copper arsenate (CCA) have voluntarily cancelled the use of CCA for residential uses. CCA contains arsenic, a known human carcinogen, which poses a threat to human health. Residential uses of CCA treated wood include play structures, decks, picnic tables, landscaping timbers, residential fencing, patios and walkways/boardwalks.

After December 31, 2003, EPA will not allow CCA products to be used to treat wood intended for most residential settings. However, existing stocks may be sold, distributed or used until supplies are depleted.

Several alternatives to CCA are available on the market. Wood alternatives such as cedar and redwood along with non-wood alternatives such as metals and plastics provide acceptable solutions to CCA treated lumber. Other alternatives including wood treated with ammoniacal copper quat (ACQ) and copper boron azole (CBA) are already available at home improvement centers.

CCA is used to protect wood from dry rot, fungi, molds, termites and other pests that can threaten the integrity of wood products. Other common uses of CCA include highway noise barriers, signposts, utility posts and retaining walls. It has been used as a wood treatment product since the 1970s.

CCA treated wood will still be allowed on permanent wood foundations and fence posts for agricultural uses.

Consumers who currently have structures made with CCA treated wood are not being advised to remove or replace them; however, a few safety precautions should be followed. If you have more questions about products treated with CCA or questions about how they should be handled, visit "www.epa.gov/pesticides/factsheets/chemicals/1file.htm" or contact the South Dakota Department of Agriculture at 605/773-4432 or (800) 228-5254.

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