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Ore. schools warned about lead in turf fields

06:55 PM PDT on Saturday, June 28, 2008

AP

EUGENE, Ore. -- Schools across Oregon have been warned about potentially dangerous levels of lead in artificial turf playing fields.

Recently, worrisome levels of lead were found at a handful of fields in New Jersey.

The turf industry is pointing out that there have been no reports of anyone falling ill and no conclusive research showing any risk.

Nonetheless, two federal agencies are investigating potential health and environmental risks associated with synthetic turf.

A neurotoxin, lead is especially dangerous for children, who can suffer impaired mental and physical development even with limited exposure.

The vast majority of fields in Oregon are made from polyethylene and/or polypropylene.

It doesn't appear any reports have been made of elevated lead in those types of fibers.

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