Update THE LATEST HEADLINES FROM THE IOG AND THE INDUSTRY
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RUBBER CRUMB
Statement on 3G pitches
New FAQ advice and information available THE IOG HAS contributed to the production of a series of frequently asked questions on the use of rubber crumb in 3G pitches. Led by Sport England and other stakeholders these FAQs (at www.groundsmanship. co.uk/3Gpitches) are provided for general information only. The FAQs are based on information, research and material that is currently in the public domain and will be continually kept under review and updated as necessary. However, they are not intended to be comprehensive guidance or to replace the need for specialist technical advisors on specific sites/projects or concerns. The IOG will continue to monitor any new evidence arising especially concerning the cause and link associated with the issue of Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma associated with rubber crumb infill. A position statement in response to questions and concerns regarding third generation (3G) artificial grass pitches was also agreed: “Third generation or 3G artificial grass pitches are recognised as durable, safe, year-round playing surfaces, able to withstand intensive use and all kinds of weather. They mean more people can benefit from all the associated social and health benefits of physical activity. “Concerns have, however, been raised about the safety associated with these pitches and their constituent parts, most commonly the presence of rubber crumb. The IOG takes these concerns very seriously. “The IOG has monitored numerous independent scientific studies on this issue, which have reported a very low/ negligible level of concern for human
6 THE GROUNDSMAN August 2017
The joint statement addresses safety concerns
health as a result of 3G pitches and rubber crumb. “Indeed, the European Chemicals Agency has recently published its own findings, following an extensive EUwide study, and has found no reason to advise people against playing sport on 3G pitches with rubber crumb. “The Sports and Play Construction Association (SAPCA), the UK trade body for the sports pitch industry, is developing a voluntary industry standard that will provide minimum requirements that go above and beyond what is currently required for rubber crumb under European regulation. “The IOG, Sport England and leading sport governing bodies all support this approach and will continue to work with the industry to provide reassurance that pitches in this country are safe.” • The key stakeholders are the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport, England Hockey, The Football Association, the Football Foundation, the IOG, the Rugby Football League, the Rugby Football Union, SAPCA and Sport England. www.groundsmanship.co.uk/3Gpitches
SAVE THE DATE
BOOKINGS FOR IOG AWARDS NOW OPEN
TICKETS ARE NOW available for this year’s IOG Industry Awards being held in Birmingham on Wednesday 1 November. The event, sponsored by Rigby Taylor and Top Green, is on the evening of the opening day of the SALTEX exhibition, and will be hosted by talkSPORT radio presenter Mark Saggers with after-dinner entertainment by Kev Orkian. Kev has performed at some of the UK’s most well-respected comedy venues and private functions for the royal families of Oman, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as well as the 89th birthday celebrations for Prince Phillip. IOG chief executive, Geoff Webb, said: ”Now in its ninth year, the IOG Industry Awards this year have some new categories that reflect the diversity of the industry, and in particular we welcome the new professional awards for football that recognise, nationwide, those working at all levels.” Places cost £90 for IOG members (£180 for non-members). Download the form from www.iog.org/awards, complete and email to events@iog.org or call 01908 552 988.