Chromated copper arsenate (CCA) is a wood preservative that contains chrome, copper, and arsenic, in various proportions. It is a water-soluble inorganic pesticide used to make wood resistant to attack by termites and fungi that cause decay. The wood is dipped in a solution of CCA and subjected to vacuum pressure to force penetration of this substance into the wood. CCA-treated wood is also referred to as pressure-treated wood.
Before 2004, many residential outdoor structures such as playground sets, picnic tables, benches and decks were manufactured using CCA-treated wood. However, due to health concerns related to arsenic, a known carcinogen, the manufacture of CCA-treated products was phased out for residential and consumer uses.
It has been used for wood treatment since the mid-1930s and is marketed under many trade names. But since 2004, with the entry into force of the Directive 2003/4/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 January 2003 on public access to environmental information and repealing Council Directive 90/313/EEC, in Europe in Europe, it is prohibited the use and marketing of arsenic and CCA wood preservatives and the use of CCA-treated wood in domestic and residential buildings.
Why is CCA a hazardous substance?
The hazardous characteristics of this substance derive from its components, especially arsenic.
However, the two main concerns about CCA are that arsenic can be inhaled when CCA-treated wood is burnt, and that over time small amounts of chemicals may leach from CCA-treated wood to soil, contaminating it such as water and food.
For this, the use of it as a wood preservative has been banned in Europe since 2004 with the entry into force of the Directive 2003/4/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 January 2003 on public access to environmental information and repealing Council Directive 90/313/EEC.
Where can CCA be found?
CCA-treated wood has had many uses in the construction sector, some of which are now banned in some countries. However, in demolition it is very common to find it in the following elements:
- Decks
- Playgrounds
- Picnic Tables
- Fences
- Patios
- Walkways
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This article can be found in the 2022 edition of the document. Find the full publication here:
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