The lead concentration did not approach health standards, but “the small number of fields sampled makes it difficult” to apply the state-funded study’s conclusions to other fields, the summary says.
Artificial turf fields, especially those older than three years, should be screened for lead, according to the August 2011 summary.
Lead is a toxic metal that can cause a host of health effects in children, including behavioral problems and learning disabilities, and adults, including high blood pressure, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency .
The study, dated July 2011, was posted only recently on the state Department of Environmental Protection  website. It was conducted by the Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute  in Piscataway.
Researchers tried to contact school superintendents and officials at locations with nearly 50 turf fields, but were allowed to test only five, according to the study.
The goal was to conduct testing at 12 to 15 fields, the study says.
Officials cited concerns about potential litigation if anything was uncovered or the possibility of having to replace their fields, according to the study . One community was concerned that testing could void the warranty of its field.
What about protecting the health of children and adults who use artificial turf fields?