Results Show All Fields Passed Industry-Standard Safety Testing
Today, the D.C. Department of General Services (DGS) announced that annual GMAX testing of synthetic turf fields throughout the District has been completed for 2023, with testing of all 74 fields conducted between June 25 and August 1. GMAX testing is the standard for synthetic turf fields as established by the American Academy for Testing and Materials.
During this year’s testing window, DGS observed the following results:
- 68 synthetic turf fields passed on the first test.
- 6 synthetic turf fields required repairs to ensure GMAX compliance.
- Repairs on all impacted fields were made within 24 hours of initial testing.
- All repaired fields passed following a second GMAX test.
- As of August 1, 2023, all 74 synthetic turf fields are GMAX compliant and fully-operational.
- Testing was conducted following protocols established by the District's Interagency Working Group on Artificial Turf and Playgrounds.
These results come as the American College of Sports Medicine ranks Washington, DC second in its annual “American Fitness Index Rankings,” highlighting the excellence of the District’s recreational facilities.
“District residents and visitors deserve access to safe recreation surfaces,” said DGS Acting Director Delano Hunter. “The annual GMAX testing and repair of our synthetic turf fields ensures everyone can safely play, practice, and exercise on these surfaces, and DGS is proud to protect these facilities for continued use.”
Since 2022, DGS has expanded its frequency and scope of testing for environmental risks in DGS-owned and managed public buildings and at recreational spaces with synthetic surfaces. Please click here for more information on the District's FY23 GMAX test results.
Photos of testing in action at Park View Recreation Center
