California Health Agency Reaffirms Safety of Synthetic Turf in Landmark Study

Sacramento, CA – March 6, 2026 – The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), the state agency responsible for evaluating health risks, has released the final version of its study evaluating crumb rubber infill used in synthetic turf fields, reaffirming what research has shown time and again: synthetic turf systems are safe. The study, one of the most comprehensive state-level evaluations of synthetic turf to date, concludes that the material is not likely to cause harm to users or spectators, finding no evidence of significant risk for cancer or other health problems to players, coaches, referees, or spectators, including young athletes.

"This comprehensive study reaffirms what independent researchers and public health agencies have found for years: synthetic turf fields that use crumb rubber made from recycled rubber are safe for athletes and communities," said Melanie Taylor, CAE, President and CEO of the Synthetic Turf Council (STC). "At a time when California communities need durable, water-efficient, and year-round accessible recreational spaces for outdoor play, this study makes clear that synthetic turf remains a safe and responsible choice."

Initiated in 2015, the multi-year study included field sampling across 35 synthetic turf fields of varying ages and climate regions throughout California, analysis of more than 100 chemicals, and real-world exposure modeling for athletes and young children. The study evaluated potential exposure through skin contact, inhalation, and incidental ingestion, and characterized both short-term and long-term health outcomes. The findings provide clarity for schools, municipalities, and families who rely on these fields for year-round recreation and athletics. OEHHA identified no acute health hazards to users of synthetic turf with crumb rubber infill, including toddlers. Risk of cancer, sensory irritation, harm to the reproductive system or a developing fetus, or other health effects was found to be negligible.

The OEHHA report follows similar findings from previous independent studies. In 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), concluded that athletes who played on synthetic turf fields that use crumb rubber infill experienced no significant difference in chemical exposure than those who played on fertilized sod fields. The EPA and OEHHA reports reflect a growing body of scientific consensus that synthetic turf is a safe, reliable option for communities to enjoy year-round access to play.

The full OEHHA study is available at www.oehha.ca.gov. Additional information about synthetic turf can be found at www.syntheticturfcouncil.org.

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