Synthetic turf allows fields to be utilised around the clock and seven days a week, saving water, money and people’s time. Studies indicate that crumb rubber-infilled synthetic turf fields present minimal chemical risks; nevertheless, managers must understand these concerns and formulate policies that address them effectively. Abrasions and Lacerations Installations of JustQuality synthetic turf athletic fields by school districts, municipal governments, colleges & universities, and professional sports organisations have become widespread. This type of field utilises various types of crumb rubber infill material deposited between blades of artificial grass affixed to an attachment backing; additionally, some synthetic infill turf systems use aggregate or sand layers as infill material. Cuts or abrasions caused by contact with synthetic turf Adelaide fields can become infected; however, injury studies do not indicate an increase in lacerations incidents compared to other surfaces. Turf Burn or “turf blister,” an abrasion commonly experienced in football and other sports, occurs from friction between athletes’ bodies and the field surface, leading to skin removal from under the athlete’s fingertips. Turf Burn can be excruciating and will produce an angry red raspberry-coloured sore at the site of damage. Athleticians suffering from turf burn should avoid sharing equipment, razors, towels, soap or other items with teammates to limit germ spread and increase player health. Clothing covering elbows, knees and hands when playing should also be worn to minimise injury risk on the field. While certain carcinogens in crumb rubber have been linked with turf burn, new studies conducted by federal governments and California may help fill data gaps and decrease uncertainties. Infections Athletics in contact with synthetic turf Adelaide and bare skin are at increased risk of infections caused by Staph (MRSA) and other bacteria, most typically entering through cuts or abrasions on athletic fields, whether natural grass or artificial turf. Sharing equipment such as razors and soap may also spread infections between users. Studies have shown that bacteria found in crumb rubber infill of synthetic turf systems can harbour and multiply on the grass surface, leading to skin injuries. Studies have also discovered a high level of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria present, commonly known as MRSA – often antibiotic-resistant bacteria which spread via skin abrasion wounds to other people infected. If MRSA enters your bloodstream, it can invade and infiltrate organs, potentially leading to pneumonia, joint infection or life-threatening infections in other parts of your body. Temperature Dark fibres used in synthetic turf that mimic grass absorb solar radiation and become hot under prolonged exposure, reaching temperatures high enough to cause burns on players’ and spectators’ feet. Furthermore, elevated temperatures have been shown to impact local air temperatures creating an “urban heat island”. Though synthetic turf doesn’t become quite as hot as concrete, rocks or patio furniture when exposed to direct sunlight, even with cloud cover present, water sprinkling has dramatically reduced surface temperatures for short-term usage only. The natural sand infill is the ideal solution, particularly for residential use. Not only is it more eco-friendly and safer for pets and children, but the sand is easy to keep clean – rinsed off with the garden hose – further contributing to keeping it cooler. Many municipalities and water districts recognise these concerns, prohibiting synthetic turf from their rebate programs in favour of natural infill options such as sand, organic matter or recycled tire crumb. Some even provide rebates for installing natural lawns with rain gardens, enabling the soil to serve its intended function and stop rainwater from lingering on artificial turf systems. Water If you live in an area with heavy rainfall, calcium can accumulate on synthetic turf fields quickly and must be addressed promptly using safe products on these surfaces. Vinegar has long been considered a useful means for eliminating hard water spots; however, care must be taken not to dilute too much; otherwise, acid damage could occur to its surface. When using harsh chemicals on a field, it’s wise to immediately rinse the area afterwards to avoid staining or discolouration, dilute any cleaner that spilled onto it, and reduce its toxins for children or pets. This step is especially essential when dealing with pet urine or feces issues. Rinsing urine-prone areas twice weekly should be sufficient to control odours. Rinsing helps dilute any mineral salts present in urine, thus lessening its offensive odour.