Two third-generation artificial turf pitches reopen with trial use of new infill materials
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The LCSD has been closely monitoring the latest developments of artificial turf system and relevant local and international good practices. New infill materials are being introduced at selected venues on a trial basis to enhance the third-generation artificial turf pitches under the management of the LCSD. An organic material (cork) and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), which comply with the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA)'s safety requirements, are being trialled as infill materials for the artificial turf pitches at Tsing Yi Northeast Park and Kwong Fuk Park in Tai Po respectively. The two artificial turf pitches will reopen today for use by the public and are available for block booking.
The LCSD will review the durability, overall performance and cost-effectiveness of the new infill materials as reference for new facilities or refurbishment in the future.
In response to the public concerns about health and safety-related issues in regard to the artificial turf pitches, the LCSD formed the Committee on Artificial Turf Pitches in March 2017. The Committee comprises representatives of relevant government departments and national sports associations as well as experts to review the current standards, requirements and practices for the design, construction, installation, operation and maintenance of the third-generation artificial turf pitches in venues managed by the LCSD. The Committee completed its review report earlier and confirmed that the artificial turf system (including infill materials) fully complied with the safety requirements of FIFA, and is widely used across the globe. The LCSD has accepted the measures recommended by the Committee for providing quality and safe artificial turf pitches for public use. The relevant executive summary has been uploaded to the LCSD website (www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/aboutlcsd/ppr/investigation/Executive_Summary_Artificial_Turf_Pitches_en.pdf) for public inspection.
Ends/Friday, February 19, 2021
Issued at HKT 14:30
Issued at HKT 14:30
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