 Health Hazards
[ASBESTOS] [LEAD] [RADON] [VOCs] [FORMALDEHYDE] [MOLD & MILDEW] [ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS]
[INDOOR AIR QUALITY] [UNDERGROUND STORAGE TANKS] [LANDLORD TENNANT RESPONSIBILITIES]
hazards  formaldehyde
Formaldehyde has been classified as a probable human carcinogen by the EPA. Formaldehyde-based resins are components of finishes, plywood, paneling, fiberboard, and particleboard, all widely employed in conventional home construction as building materials (subflooring, walls, etc.) and as components of furniture and cabinets, permanent press fabric, draperies, and mattress ticking. Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-based resin are common chemicals utilized in the manufacturing of carpeting. Urea-formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI), one source of formaldehyde used in home construction until the early 1980's, is now seldom installed. Formaldehyde, a volatile organic chemical will readily de-gas or off-gas from these building materials. The level of vapors given off will depend on the age of the materials and the type of materials present. Commonly, high vapor levels will exist when these materials are first installed and the levels will decrease with time. In some cases, the off-gassing and vapor levels will persist for months or even years after the initial installation of the materails.
Human exposure to formaldehyde occurs as a result of brething the off-gassing vapors from the formaldehyde containing building materials. Airborne formaldehyde acts as an irritant to the upper and lower respiratory tract. Symptoms are temporary, and depending on the level and length of exposure, may range from burning or tingling sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat to chest tightness and wheezing. Acute, severe reactions to formaldehyde vapor - which has a distinctive, pungent odor - may be associated with hypersensitivity. It is estimated that 10 to 20 percent of the U.S. population, including asthmatics, may have hyperactive airways which may make them more suseptable to formaldehyde's effects.
Formaldehyde is one of the best known volatile organic compound (VOC) pollutants, and is one of the few indoor air pollutants that can be readily measured. Identify, and if possible, remove the source if formaldehyde is the potential cause of the problem. If not possible, reduce exposure; use polyurethane or other sealants on cabinets, paneling, and other furnishings. To be effective, any such coating must cover all surfaces and edges and remain intact. Formaldehyde is also used in permanent press fabric and mattress ticking. Sensitive individuals should choose to avoid these products.
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