Jiangsu rolls out stricter standards for running track manufacturing
(ec.js.edu.cn) Updated：2016-08-26
Jiangsu has rolled out stricter standards for running track manufacturing to ensure the best quality equipment for students across the province, Modern Express reported on Aug 24.
The newly released guideline specified the construction standards of sports fields, artificial turf, benches and other synthetic sports facilities.
Shen Zhuxin, deputy director of Jiangsu Sports Construction Industry Association, said, "Plastic running tracks are currently not free of hazardous substances, but it is the concentration levels that matter most. The odor of running tracks originates from the chemical components including formaldehyde, toluene, xylene and aromatic solvent oil."
According to the new guideline, all synthetic running tracks will have to meet extra requirements including a limit on the use of volatile organic compounds in addition to the national standards.
"In general, the new running tracks will meet the same strict regulations as EU toy safety standards," said Shen, adding the higher standards will likely increase production costs by as much as 50 percent.
The move came after pupils at a Beijing primary school reported nosebleeds, dizziness and coughs after alleged exposure to a newly renovated running track, while similar cases in Jiangsu, Guangdong and other provinces have also fueled public concerns in recent months.
Up to now, some 62 enterprises have signed the letter of commitment and pledged to strictly implement it in accordance with the guidelines.
