The aim of this survey was to study the microbial population in several infilled synthetic turf as well as in natural grass fields. In addition, other surfaces from public areas and from athletic training facilities were also sampled. Colonies suspected to be Staphylococcus aureus that were positively or negatively identified. S. aureus is a bacterium - common inhabitant of human skin and can cause different kinds of skin infections; they have also been implicated in certain types of food poisoning that can cause serious medical problems such as toxic shock syndrome.

Strains of S. aureus which is resistant to antibiotics are becoming more common, particularly in medical settings. There have been reports recently of methicillin resistant S. aureus causing infection in athletes. With an increase in athlete infections, there is a concern when it comes to infilled turf systems. However there are some indications that the source of these bacteria might be more closely associated with locker room activity than with the infill system, conclusive evidence is not currently available.