SYNLawn Central California in Fresno, CA, is happy to share that the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) has released its long-anticipated draft study on the health and safety of synthetic turf. This research was designed to evaluate whether artificial grass fields, especially those with crumb rubber infill, pose potential health risks to players, coaches, referees, or even spectators who spend time on or near them. The results are clear and reassuring: OEHHA found no significant health risks associated with synthetic turf use.
For homeowners, schools, and sports facilities across Fresno, California, this outcome is an encouraging confirmation that synthetic turf remains a safer, more sustainable, and smarter choice. At SYNLawn Central California, we believe this study highlights the many benefits of artificial grass while addressing concerns about safety.
Key Findings of the OEHHA Study
The OEHHA study is one of the most comprehensive reviews of synthetic turf to date. It analyzed 35 fields of varying ages and climates across California, consulting with federal agencies, independent researchers, coaches, parents, and players. To ensure accuracy, the agency also formed a Scientific Advisory Panel composed of experts in exposure, laboratory testing, and biomedical science.
Here are some of the most important takeaways:
- No Immediate Health Hazards: The study found no chemical exposures from turf fields that would cause short-term issues such as eye or airway irritation.
- Safer for Long-Term Use: On average, long-term use of synthetic turf fields does not result in exposure levels that could affect childhood development or reproductive health.
- Insignificant Cancer Risks: the California OEHHA concluded that lifetime exposure to crumb rubber infill poses a negligible cancer risk – less than one additional case in a population of one million people over 70 years.
- No PFAS Detected in Crumb Rubber: Importantly, the study’s non-targeted chemical analysis did not find PFAS in crumb rubber infill. While turf blades may sometimes be a source, SYNLawn manufactures its products PFAS-free, making them an even safer option for California communities.
This thorough analysis provides peace of mind for everyone, from school administrators to parents of young athletes.
Why This Matters for Fresno, CA
Fresno is known for its vibrant mix of residential neighborhoods, schools, parks, and athletic facilities. With year-round activity and California’s ongoing focus on water conservation, artificial grass has already become a preferred solution for many.
This new OEHHA study further strengthens the case for synthetic turf in several ways:
- Confidence in Safety – Concerns about crumb rubber have circulated for years. This study reassures local communities that installing synthetic turf fields or lawns does not compromise health.
- Support for Youth Sports – Schools and athletic organizations in Fresno, CA, can continue to use synthetic turf fields knowing they are safer environments for young athletes.
- Environmental Responsibility – By choosing turf manufactured PFAS-free from SYNLawn, local property owners not only help conserve water but also reduce reliance on pesticides, fertilizers, and gas-powered lawn equipment.
SYNLawn’s Commitment to Safer, Smarter Turf
While the OEHHA study highlights the overall safety of synthetic turf, SYNLawn Central California takes this commitment even further. Our turf products are:
- Manufactured PFAS-free
- Made with sustainable materials like soybean oil
- Durable & comfortable
- Low-maintenance
Whether for a backyard, a school playground, or a full-sized athletic field, SYNLawn Central California offers safer and more sustainable turf solutions backed by innovation and science in communities like Fresno, Clovis, and Madera.
Moving Forward with Confidence
The OEHHA’s findings are a positive milestone for the synthetic turf industry and a reassuring message for communities across California, and at SYNLawn Central California, we are proud to provide residential, commercial, and sports turf products that not only meet but exceed health and environmental standards in Fresno, CA. If you are considering a synthetic turf installation for your home, business, or sports facility, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us at SYNLawn Central California today for a free consultation and discover why we are a trusted choice for artificial grass.
