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3G Rubber Crumb - Club response to media coverage.

3G Rubber Crumb - Club response to media coverage.

County Saints16 Jun 2018 - 17:54
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Club response to media coverage of health risks associated with rubber crumb used on artifical pitches

The Club takes the health and safety of it's players seriously and has been aware of some studies (primarily in the USA) around health effects associated with rubber crumb used to create 'normal' ball bounce on artifical pitches.

Ultimately, we await further FA guidance.

In our opinion, the facts are currently as follows:

  • The crumb is made by shredding/recycling end of life tyres;
  • It is similarly used to reduce injuries in children's play areas;
  • It is particularly advised that rubber crumb shouldn't be ingested or get into cuts;
  • There is a shortage of grass pitches that are well enough maintained to be used for matches and training year round. There are 500 3G pitches in constant use in this country and many many more around the world;
  • It is advised that soil or sand (containing a range of micro-organisms and contaminants) shouldn't be ingested or get into cuts.

Recommended Precautions:

  • Soil, sand or rubber crumb should be removed/washed from skin/clothing/footwear asap after play. In particular, hands should be washed before directly touching food (bring wrapped food as half time snacks);
  • Keep water bottle spouts clear of soil, sand or rubber crumb - consider lidded bottles rather than open spouts and keep bottles upright;
  • Keep cuts covered with clothing/waterproof plasters;
  • Try not to swallow soil, sand or rubber crumb which enters the mouth. Spit it out !
  • Goalkeepers (and for consideration by all players) - wear gloves, leggings and long sleeves for added protection when diving on the soil/sand/rubber crumb surface.

Please use common sense measures as you would on a grass playing field often shared with dog walkers and wild animals.

We hope that helps for the time being.

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