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Moderate burden — Pressure-Treated Wood adds a moderate, reducible exposure.
Chemically treated lumber for decks, raised beds and play sets.
Each driver rated 0 (none) to 10 (worst)
Evidence strength: moderate · Detox Score = 100 − hazard×4.6 − exposure×3.4 − persistence×2.6, clamped 1–100.
A Detox Score of 51 places pressure-treated wood in the Moderate band. The persistence rating is the standout concern here — these compounds linger in the body and environment for years. Older pressure-treated wood used arsenic-based preservative; newer types use copper compounds that can still leach. Sealing the wood or choosing untreated material limits skin and soil contact.
Pressure-Treated Wood has a Detox Score of 51 out of 100 (Moderate burden), which means it adds a moderate, reducible exposure. Older pressure-treated wood used arsenic-based preservative; newer types use copper compounds that can still leach. Sealing the wood or choosing untreated material limits skin and soil contact.
A lower-exposure swap for pressure-treated wood is: Seal it, or use untreated cedar or composite for garden and play surfaces. Older pressure-treated wood used arsenic-based preservative; newer types use copper compounds that can still leach. Sealing the wood or choosing untreated material limits skin and soil contact.