Formaldehyde is a
colorless,
flammable,
pungent-smelling
gas, disinfectant,
preservative, and a
common chemical used
in manufacturing.
Formaldehyde is an
intermediate in the
oxidation (or
combustion) of
methane as well as
other carbon
compounds.
SOURCES
OF FORMALDEHYDE
Indoor
sources of
formaldehyde include
fuel-burning
appliances, tobacco
smoke, glues and
adhesives;
permanent-press
fabrics, paper
product coatings,
other textiles such
as carpets,
upholstry, drapery
material;
urea-formaldehyde
foam insulation,
particleboard (used
as sub-flooring and
shelving and in
cabinetry and
furniture); hardwood
plywood paneling
(used for decorative
wall covering and
used in cabinets and
furniture); and
medium density
fiberboard (used for
drawer fronts,
cabinets, and
furniture tops).
Other construction
materials with
formaldehyde include
soft plywood, flake
board, and oriented
strand board. All of
these products
off-gas for a period
of time.
Formaldehyde is
released more
readily at warm
temperatures and
high humidity.
HEALTH ISSUES
Off gasing of
formaldehyde can
cause sore throat,
watery burning eyes,
difficulting
breathing, nausea,
headaches, wheezing
and coughing;
fatigue; skin rash;
siniusitis, severe
allergic reactions,
asthma attacks,
other respiratory
problems, vomiting,
diarrhea and may
even cause cancer.
OSHA has set a
limit of 0.75 ppm as
a safe limit. If you
think or feel that
you have a
formaldehyde problem
independent testing
is essential.
HOW TO REDUCE FORMALDEHYDE EXPOSURE
- Use adequate
ventilation thru
out the building
- Use air
conditioning
&
dehumidifiers to
maintain
moderate
temperature and
reduce humidity
levels
- Place a
barrier between
formaldehyde
containing
surfaces and the
indoor air -
such as applying
latex paint over
the wallpaper,
etc.
- Use protective
equipment and
clothing if
working around
formaldehyde
- Remove the
material or
piece of
furniture from
the living
environment
until it stops
off gassing
INDEPENDENT TESTING
It is one of the
most common problems
found in today's
homes and offices. A
certified indoor air
quality consultant
can test for
formaldehyde levels.
On site testing is
available. The information you
are provided from
these tests will
protect you, your
family, friends,
relatives, and
employees.
Call
NOW for
testing!
1-888-239-6969
|