Light organic solvent preservative (LOSP)
Light organic solvent preservative (LOSP) is a waterproof timber treatment. LOSP may include synthetic pyrethroids, imidacloprid, azoles or copper naphthenates, which are all pesticides, but as it uses a solvent such as white spirit to contain the insecticides and fungicides, it is less hazardous than other timber treatments.

Alternative copper based timber treatments to copper chrome arsenate

Creosote treated timber
Creosote is one of the oldest forms of timber preservative. It is derived from coal or wood, contains more than 300 chemicals and is characterised by its dark, tar-coloured appearance and distinctive smell. It is only used outdoors as it can harm human health if used indoors.

Copper chrome arsenate treated timber
Copper chrome arsenate (CCA) is a water-borne solution of up to 25% copper, up to 45% chromium and up to 37% arsenic. This treatment makes the timber highly resistant to pests and fungi but it can also be toxic when handled or burnt, and should never be used for household building or renovation.

Treated timber regulation and standards

Codes, labels and branding
Brands and labels on timber preserved to Australian Standards help buyers and users identify which company manufactured it, the treatment used and its hazard level. Special labelling is required for timber treated with copper chrome arsenate (CCA).




