Synthetic turf is increasingly used in public spaces, but in bushfire-prone areas, these fields pose specific challenges.
The 2022 Independent Review into the Design, Use and Impacts of Synthetic Turf by the NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer sheds light on these risks and provides key recommendations to mitigate them.
Specific findings and insights from the review:
Synthetic turf products that have bene tested are classified as easily flammable.
There are no relevant ignition or fire testing standards for outdoor applications of synthetic turf experiencing bushfire wind and temperature conditions.
Key Risks of Synthetic Turf in Bushfire-Prone Areas
* Flammability of Materials – Synthetic turf is made from polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and nylon, which are highly flammable under extreme temperatures. The report also warns that “polymer-based components of synthetic turf can intensify fire spread once ignited.”
* Release of Toxic Fumes – During combustion, synthetic turf releases toxic fumes, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which pose severe health risks. The report states that “burning synthetic turf emits harmful substances, increasing exposure risks for nearby communities and emergency responders.”
* High Surface Temperatures – In hot weather, synthetic turf surfaces can reach temperatures far higher than natural grass. The CSE report highlights, “Extreme surface heat not only exacerbates fire risks but also creates additional safety concerns for users.”
* Fire Spread via Embers – Bushfires often spread through embers. Synthetic fields can contribute to this due to the flammability of their materials. The CSE report notes, “Synthetic surfaces in open areas can act as a fire accelerant, especially in conditions of high wind and dry weather.”
*Accumulation of Flammable Debris – Organic debris, such as leaves or grass clippings, can accumulate on synthetic fields, acting as additional fuel during bushfires.
To address these risks, the CSE report outlines several recommendations:
1. Use Fire-Resistant Materials – “Future synthetic turf installations should prioritize fire-retardant components to reduce ignition risk and improve fire safety in high-risk zones.”
2. Design Natural Firebreaks – “Strategic vegetation planning, including fire-resistant plants and natural turf buffer zones, should be integrated to minimize fire spread.”
3. Conduct regular Maintenance and Risk Assessment – “Routine removal of debris from synthetic turf surfaces is critical to reduce fuel load during bushfire seasons.”
4. Undertake Community Awareness Campaigns – “Educating communities about synthetic turf fire risks and preparedness strategies can help mitigate impacts during extreme weather events.“
2. Avoid Installation in High-Risk Areas – “Synthetic turf should be avoided in areas with high bushfire attack levels (BAL). Consider alternative natural turf solutions or hybrid systems in such zones.”
For more information on the environmental and health implications of synthetic turf, visit our document library.
Access the full 2022 report from the NSW Chief Scientist and Engineer here.