The quality of indoor air is starting to be a more pressing issue for more people nowadays, and one of the most common compounds found in it is formaldehyde. How dangerous is this chemical pollution, and how to test for formaldehyde exposure?
- Formaldehyde air pollution – why is this an issue?
- Health and formaldehyde
- Are there safe levels of formaldehyde?
- How to test for formaldehyde exposure?
Formaldehyde air pollution – why is this an issue?
Let’s start at the beginning and learn more about formaldehyde, which is a colorless and flammable gas often found in our homes. It is known to be one of the VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) common indoor air pollutants that can have adverse health effects. What are its sources? Usually, it can appear indoors because of combustion or off-gassing. Combustion that releases formaldehyde includes tobacco smoke, fireplace smoke, improperly vented appliances that burn gas or oil, or vehicle exhaust. Off-gassing happens when household products or renovation materials release formaldehyde into the air. It can come from paints, glues, varnishes, wallpapers, cardboard, fabrics, and even paper. Because its sources often are renovation materials and furniture, formaldehyde air pollution levels can be higher in new homes or renovated buildings. Its amount can also rise in hot and humid environments, for example, during summer.
Health and formaldehyde
What are the health effects of formaldehyde? This compound is an irritant and carcinogenic substance. The mildest symptoms include irritation and burning sensation in the eyes, throat, and nose. However, long-term exposure to formaldehyde can cause airway inflammation, respiratory and asthma symptoms, and increased allergic sensitivity.
Are there safe levels of formaldehyde?
So what are the acceptable levels of formaldehyde in the air that will help us avoid any health hazards? First, we need to highlight the two types of exposure to this chemical pollution – short-term and long-term. Short-term exposure, on a 1-hour average, has a limit of 123 µg/m³ or 100 ppb. Meanwhile, long-term exposure, based on a minimum 8-hour standard, is around 50 µg/m³ or 40 ppb.
How to test for formaldehyde exposure?
How to test for formaldehyde in the air? Usually, such tests are not necessary and if you think levels of this compound in your home may be high, make sure to remove its sources and then ventilate the rooms. Waves of dry and fresh air can lower the levels of formaldehyde because this substance is always more present indoors than outdoors. However, if you suspect that your health issues are linked to formaldehyde exposure, go to your health care provider.