April 28, 2008 Hazardous turf? Play video

(NECN: Brian Burnell, Hartford, Conn.) - Are playing fields safe? That's what some Connecticut officials want to know.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission is looking into the possible health hazards of artificial turf.

Officials are investigating whether lead in the turf could harm athletes and others who play on the surface. The artificial-turf industry denied its products are dangerous.

There are about 3,500 synthetic playing fields in the U.S. made of various materials, including nylon and polyethylene.

About 800 are installed each year at schools, colleges, parks and stadiums -- according to the industry's Synthetic Turf Council.

Pigment containing lead chromate is used in some surfaces to make the turf green and hold its color in sunlight.

Click here to visit the Synthetic Turf Council Web site.