Description

Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA) is a preservative used to treat wood exposed to moisture and the outdoors. It reduces damage from molds, termites and other insects. Direct or indirect exposure to CCA can result in increased intake of inorganic arsenic.


 

CCA may be found in:

(1) wooden house decks

(2) picnic benches

(3) outdoor wooden playsets

 

A person may be exposed to the arsenic by:

(1) putting a finger that has been in contact with the treated wood into the mouth

(2) putting a piece of treated wood directly in the mouth

(3) eating food that has been placed directly on the wood

(4) eating dirt that has been adjacent to treated wood

(5) drinking water that has been in contact with the wood

(6) inhaling dust from treated wood being cut

(7) splinters from treated wood

(8) putting a toy in the mouth after the toy has been in contact with water or dirt around treated wood

(9) smoke from burning treated wood

(10) smoking a cigarette that has been placed with the filter on treated wood

 

The risk is increased for:

(1) small children

(2) carpenters or construction workers who use the treated wood

(3) dogs

 


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