Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA) is a preservative used on pressure-treated wood products, such as decks and playground structures. CCA contains chromium, copper, and arsenic, each of which contributes to the wood-preservative properties of the compound. Copper acts as a fungicide, chromium acts as a fixative agent, and the arsenic protects against insect damage.
Arsenic and chromium components of CCA pose the most significant human health concerns, due to their carcinogenicity. Copper, which is not a recognized or suspected carcinogen, is considered to pose much less of a health concern. Exposure may occur to children through touching CCA-treated wood and CCA-contaminated soil near treated wood structures, mouthing hands after touching CCA-treated wood, and through eating CCA-contaminated soil.
For additional information, please contact us.