Community Awareness

As the survey of CCA-treated timber retail outlets and information services in this report demonstrates, there is little balanced information being provided to consumers about the risks associated with CCA-treated timber. It is recommended that:

• Full information on the environmental and health risks associated with handling, use and disposal of CCA-treated timber be provided immediately at all retail outlets through pamphlets accompanying every purchase, labels on all treated wood products, and informed staff. Materials Safety Data Sheets should accompany all stocked products;
• A nation-wide community awareness campaign (that includes schools) be conducted that ensures widespread awareness of the need for proper handling, use and disposal of CCA-treated timber be carried out immediately;
• Local councils, television renovation and ‘do-it-yourself’ programs, and other influential information sources be required to communicate safety requirements, risks and alternatives to CCA-treated timber.