Chromated copper arsenate's impact on construction workers and the environment

This research project investigated whether Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA), which is a wood preservative used in pressure treated wood, is dangerous to the health of construction and wood treatment industry workers. The research also examined the effects of federal exemptions in the hazardous solid waste laws for arsenical preserved wood that allows dumping of CCA waste in unlined landfills. The contamination of water supplies from the leaching wood waste at landfills is degrading the quality of aquifers. This thesis analyzes the toxic effect of wood treated with CCA for the entire life cycle of the wood products that are used in construction projects. As part of the research a Mat-Ranger Decision Support System was developed that allows construction personnel to examine the potential toxic effects of different construction materials along with comparing the cost of the materials to the potential environmental degradation that could result from using each potential material.