Formaldehyde

By Mr. Artemiss, BPS, CIE, CMC

SAFE-HOMES Environmental Consultants

(954) 531-6476

What Is Formaldehyde?

Formaldehyde is a chemical which is commonly used in adhesives or bonding agents in many materials. It is found in many materials in your home or office. It is released into the air from these materials in a phenomena call out gassing. The release into the air causes health problems such as sinus or lung irritations or other health problems. It is a powerful irritant that can contaminate the air you breathe in you home or office.

Where Is Formaldehyde Found?

It is found in the following particleboard products: sub flooring, paneling, cabinets and furniture. Other sources can be drapes, carpets, upholstery, urea-formaldehyde resins and certain products such as some fabric softeners and some air fresheners.

Formaldehyde Health Effects !

It can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, skin rashes, coughing, headaches, nausea, vomiting, nosebleeds, dizziness, throat and sinus irritation. It is a nervous system depressant and carcinogenic in nature. Most people are sensitive to it because of its wide spread use in our society. Some people are hypersensitive to it and are classed as Chemically Sensitive. It can effect you at very low levels of .05 parts per million (PPM). We have tested some houses and found that 75% of all houses have it present in the air. Older houses do not have it normally unless it is introduced by means of new construction. This is one of the irritants found in Sick Building Syndrome.

Formaldehyde Solutions!

Remove the Source: This is the easiest method to solve the problem. It is important to know where the source is and usually requires the services of a professional. It very important to play detective and solve the problem.
Encase the Source: There are many products on the market that can reduce the outgassing phenomena associated with formaldehyde. Special coatings or sealers can be employed to solve the problem. It very important that the job is done correctly, or you have not solved the problem.
Air Purification: A industrial grade air cleaner (carbon and zeolite) can be used to reduce the contaminants in the air. Do not use low level ozone machines to remove formaldehyde because ozone is an oxidizer and can damage the sinus or lung tissues at low levels over a long period of time.
Ventilation: Open the windows once a week to introduce fresh air into your environment and reduce chemical hazards by diluting them. This is important for the solution to the problem.
Ventilation Systems: Air to air heat exchangers draw fresh air to help dilute the chemicals in the building. They can retain the air conditioning or the heat if necessary
Additional Information: State of California Guidelines

Call (954) 531-6476

Safe Homes