Investigating the safety of artificial turf fields and playgrounds
Official title: Addressing Community Concerns and Assessing Exposures and Alternatives to Artificial Turf Fields and Playgrounds
Funded at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11043379 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how safe artificial turf fields and playgrounds made with recycled tire crumbs are for kids and adults, especially regarding any harmful chemicals they might contain, so that communities can make better choices about playground safety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | May 2, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $665,522 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES034779-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043379 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include children and adults who frequently use artificial turf fields and playgrounds.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use artificial turf fields or playgrounds may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on assessing the safety of artificial turf fields and playgrounds, particularly those using recycled tire crumb infill. It aims to evaluate potential exposure to toxic chemicals and their effects on both children and adults who use these surfaces. The study will involve community engagement to address concerns and gather data on chemical exposure in realistic playing conditions. By comparing traditional infills with alternative materials, the research seeks to provide communities with the information needed to make informed decisions about playground safety.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer playing environments for children and adults, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have raised concerns about the safety of artificial turf, but this research aims to provide more comprehensive exposure assessments, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harari, Homero — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Harari, Homero
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.