With the publication of its landmark Guidelines for Synthetic Turf Performance, the Synthetic Turf Council has provided objective measures that make it possible to better understand the quality and performance of multi-purpose synthetic sports systems during design, selection, after installation and throughout its useful life. This milestone marks the first time guidance has been provided for multi-purpose sports fields.
“This is a major development for the synthetic turf industry,” explains Rick Doyle, president of the Synthetic Turf Council. “Our voluntary guidelines help answer many questions from owners, buyers and specifiers about the performance of multi-purpose synthetic turf fields over time. “
These guidelines encourage periodic and voluntary testing to indicate the type of maintenance that should be implemented to maximize multi-purpose sports field performance. If a field is not performing within the desired range in critical test areas despite targeted maintenance, then the owner will know the field may soon need to be replaced.
The STC’s Guidelines for Synthetic Turf Performance were developed using input from STC member experiences and technical knowledge, ASTM standards, collaboration with FIFA, the international governing body for soccer, and a similar approach used by the International Rugby Board. While the ASTM standards provide useful information regarding product identification, turf fabric testing and g-max testing, STC identified opportunities for greater attention to sport performance testing, which are included in the document. Although these guidelines do not cover warranty information, it addresses key areas with durability and surface interaction testing.
Visit www.syntheticturfcouncil.org to access STC’s Performance Guidelines, technical standards and other helpful information. Consultants are invited to join the STC to obtain detailed support in fully understanding and utilizing this information on behalf of their clients.