Problems when using old railway sleepers for raised beds

[rodm]

I am planning to use old railway sleepers to build raised beds but have been warned of problems associated with them leeching their preservatives - more clarity from anyone in the know please.

After posting this I found this information

**** From the end of June 2003 a new EU directive becomes effective regarding creosoted products. The Department of Trade & Industry rules state that creosote-treated wood must not be used "in parks, gardens and outdoor recreational leisure facilities where there is a risk of frequent skin contact" or in "containers intended for growing purposes".

What would we do without the EU !!!!!

 

[Glyn1959]

Would you not line the raised bed with polythene anyway?

 

[cobweb]

In north London, where I live, you can buy "new" sleepers for about £15 each. I'm sure they are available elsewhere.

They weather very quickly and are not creosoted. You would have to treat them but you could use something like Ronseal which is not a contact hazard.