Wood (Treated)

Hazards

• Treated wood may contain Creosote, Pentachlorophenol, Chromated Copper Arsenicals (CCA).
• Creosote is typically used on telephone poles, railroad ties and marine lumber applications. Creosote is a tar-like material containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, some of which are carcinogenic.
• Pentachlorophenol can be absorbed through the skin. Although health effects in humans of limited exposure is unknown, exposure of this chemical to certain animals has caused sickness and death.
• Chromated Copper Arsenicals (CCA), the wood preservative used in pressure treated wood, is not considered hazardous to humans with limited contact. However, precautions are recommended for working with CCA treated wood (see CCA bulletin on EPA web page).

Handling

• Aged creosote or CCA -treated wood can be used safely in landscaping.
• Do not burn in a fireplace because toxic compounds may be emitted.

Management Options

• Householders may dispose of treated wood in the trash, although local size restrictions may require pieces to be cut.