Proposed Federal Bill Would Set Limits on Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde information and testing solutions provided by EMSL Analytical, Inc.

Westmont, NJ

Earlier this year a new California law resulted in regulations for formaldehyde containing products in the state. Recently a federal bill was introduced to Congress that would set similar federal limits for formaldehyde products found in homes.

The bill would reduce indoor emissions of formaldehyde from particleboard, plywood and medium density fiberboard. All of these materials are commonly used in construction and in furniture and much of the formaldehyde that people are exposed to comes from these materials. Currently there are no federal standards for formaldehyde emissions in homes.

In recent years the health effects associated with formaldehyde exposure have brought to light the dangers from prolonged and repeated contact with the chemical. The major exposure risks associated with formaldehyde come from occupants inhaling contaminated air. Exposure to elevated levels of formaldehyde can trigger asthma attacks, nausea, watery eyes and difficulty breathing.

Formaldehyde has been shown to cause cancer in animals and according to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) formaldehyde may reasonably be anticipated to be a carcinogen. The World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies formaldehyde as a carcinogen.

Due to these concerns, tests of furnishing and building materials for off-gassing is becoming a much more common practice to safeguard the health and safety of people. EMSL Analytical, one of the nation’s premier formaldehyde testing laboratories, has facilities across the nation to help test for formaldehyde in air and off-gassing of materials and products.

“It is important that people are aware of the short and long term risks associated with formaldehyde,” reported Joe Frasca, Executive Vice President for EMSL Analytical. “EMSL has developed an online video that demonstrates formaldehyde sampling techniques at www.EMSL.tv and has made available a free formaldehyde brochure that can be downloaded at www.EMSL.com,” Frasca continued.

To learn more about formaldehyde testing or other testing needs please email info@EMSL.com or call (800) 220-3675.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of consumer product, environmental, industrial hygiene, food and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

Contact Information

Joe Frasca

Senior Vice President, Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

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