Just last month, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule to reduce exposure to formaldehyde off-gassing from certain wood products produced domestically or imported. These products include hardwood plywood, medium-density fiberboard, and particleboard, as well as household and other finished goods containing these products.

As far back as 1987, the EPA classified formaldehyde as a probable human carcinogen. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) does classify formaldehyde as a human carcinogen and the California Air Resources Board (ARB) has classified formaldehyde as a Toxic Air Contaminant.

Formaldehyde is a chemical widely used by industry to manufacture building materials and numerous household products. Its primary use is in the production of resins and as a chemical intermediate. It is also a by-product of combustion and certain other natural processes. This means it may be present in substantial concentrations both indoors and outdoors in some circumstances.

“Exposure to elevated levels of formaldehyde can occur in both residential and commercial indoor environments due to its use in so many materials,” said Michael Berrevoets, President, VOETS, LLC. “High concentrations may trigger asthma attacks in some people and there is some evidence that people can develop sensitivity to formaldehyde. Common health effects include eye, nose, and throat irritation; wheezing and coughing; fatigue; skin rash; severe allergic reactions; and possibly cancer.”

High levels of formaldehyde have been found in people’s homes, schools, offices and factories. Throughout the tri-state area, VOETS offers the region’s leading indoor air quality consultants for identifying formaldehyde and other potentially harmful airborne pollutants. Their experts utilize the latest air testing methods and if a problem is found, they offer solutions for eliminating or reducing exposure risks.