26th May 2007
By ITTF
Based on a majority decision taken by the Board of Directors of
the ITTF, Glues containing harmful volatile compounds are no longer approved by
the ITTF effective immediately. Although it is felt by the Board of Directors
that the current levels of volatile compounds in Glues used to affix rubber
coverings to the table tennis blade are in very small quantities and if applied
correctly in a ventilated area provide no serious health risk to the players,
it is felt, however, that long term use of such glues may have negative health
effects. Therefore, as of immediate effect the ITTF informs all players to
cease using glues containing volatile compounds (VCs).
It
is, therefore, the responsibility of each player, or his/her parents in case of
minors, to cease using glues containing VCs. Any player using such glues will
be doing so at his/her own risk and the ITTF will not be held responsible of
any consequences or ill effects resulting from the use of such glues.
All
existing ITTF approvals of glues are WITHDRAWN effective immediately. This
withdrawal applies to ALL glues currently on the market. The ITTF will cease to
approve any type of glue effective immediately. However, the ITTF’s current “racket testing” programme and protocols
will continue, which controls the amount of VCs in a racket in order to protect
the health of the players.
The
ITTF will publish and circulate widely a list of available glues that are free
of volatile compounds. This list will be updated regularly on the ITTF’s website.
As
of 1 January 2008 for ITTF Junior events, and as of 1 September 2008 for all
other ITTF events, the ITTF will implement a new zero tolerance racket testing
programme and protocol, using the “e-nez” and RAE
instruments to ensure that all rackets used by players are VC free.
In
addition, as of today, in the case that a proven severe health incident occurs
and is confirmed by the medical authority recognized by the ITTF, then the ITTF
would implement the new testing programme immediately (VC free) at that date
(confirmation of the incident) and sanctions would be applied for failed tests.
An exact legal announcement of this procedure will be made shortly by the ITTF.
The
ITTF urges all parties involved, players, national associations, continental
associations, manufacturers, and parents to act accordingly.
Adham Sharara
President