New research from the USA has linked increased cancer risks with exposure to wood treated with copper chrome arsenate (CCA). The chemical prevents pine products from rot and insect attack.
Unless proven safe before the end of the year, Australia will ban all playground equipment containing wood treated with CCA. Scientific reviews of CCA are also being undertaken in the EU and the US has already agreed to a voluntary phasing out of the chemical by the end of the year.
Source: SMH