SYNTHETIC TURF
Beware infill dispersal T
he ability of a synthetic turf surface to sustain high levels of usage and facilitate large numbers of people to play sport has cemented their role in many communities. However, it’s important that it is used in such a way that minimises the negative impact it has on its surroundings. One important fact to consider is minimising the migration of infill into the environment. The EMEA Synthetic Turf Council, working in conjunction with the European Standards
54 | TURF MATTERS | MAY-JUNE 2022
Committee, have prepared Technical Report 17519: Guidance on how to Minimise Infill Dispersion into the Environment – detailing how employment of some simple design, operation and maintenance procedures can help to reduce the potential of infill contaminating the surrounding environment. Together with construction considerations, such as containment barriers, decontamination mats and perimeter drainage, the ongoing maintenance must also be conducted mindfully. With the use of a synthetic surface, infill will naturally migrate outwards towards the pitch perimeters which is where effective maintenance comes into play; ensuring that infill is returned to the higher use areas for surface stability and playability. The easiest way to do this is through regular brushing, though thought should be given to the type of brush used to reduce the risk of infill flicking up and off the surface. GKB Machines have a range of brush options including the 4m wide Brush, for quick surface coverage with hydraulically foldable wings for convenient transportation and storage. In addition, the GKB Quick-Brush
can be configured with a range of optional extras including a rake or rubber finishing mat to suit individual requirements. Also in the GKB stable is the Rotobrush, for the effective maintenance of perimeter areas with significantly lower risks of infill dispersal when compared to the use of other equipment, such as leaf blowers. The rotating brush head on the arm of the Rotobrush can switch between clockwise and anti-clockwise operation, with the rigid bristles effectively collecting the accumulated infill and moving it towards the centre of the surface. Together with redistributing infill, brushing the perimeters of an artificial pitch is also crucial to stop moss, algae and other contaminants taking hold. When brushing or using any other tools such as cleaners, it is inevitable that some infill will be collected on the bristles so take care to ensure that machinery is thoroughly cleaned before it leaves the surface. Ideally, once the job is complete, the equipment should then be securely stored on a hard surface, in an area that doesn’t drain into the surrounding environment.
