Pressure treated wood

danmar26

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New Jersey
Is it safe to use pressure treated wood on an enclosure? I don't know what chemicals are used in the process? I don't want any health issues. The wood feels damp to the touch and is heavier than non treated wood.
 

Loohan

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My understanding is, the old stuff had copper chromium arsenate. I think the stuff specified for below-ground use still does. Tough stuff, but the arsenic is high enough to be dangerous.
These days (in the US) the treated lumber specified for above-ground use has just micronized copper.
But still i would not handle it without gloves if it is still wet from the copper liquid. Copper is a micronutrient but too much is not good.
Once well dried, it should be safe for pets and raised beds.
 

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