EPA Announces Costly Penalty for Violations of Composite Wood Product Formaldehyde Regulations

In 2016, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule to reduce exposure to formaldehyde from certain wood products. The rule followed the Formaldehyde Emission Standards for Composite Wood Products Act of 2010 which established emission standards for formaldehyde from composite wood products.

The EPA’s finalized rule went into effect on June 1^st, 2018. It requires composite wood products that are sold, supplied, offered for sale, manufactured or imported in the United States to be labeled as TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act) Title VI compliant. The purpose of TSCA Title VI is to reduce formaldehyde emissions from composite wood products, which will reduce exposures to formaldehyde and result in benefits from avoided adverse health effects.

Three months ago, the EPA’s Environmental Appeals Board approved a settlement with a company out of New Jersey that resolved violations associated with the importation of noncompliant composite wood products. This was the first enforcement action taken by the agency for violations of the formaldehyde regulations. The company has agreed to take corrective actions to come into compliance and will pay a penalty of over $540,000.

“Wood products covered under the regulations are broad and include hardwood plywood, medium-density fiberboard, particleboard as well as household and other finished goods containing these products,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “It also includes provisions for laminated products, product testing requirements, labeling, recordkeeping and import certification. At EMSL we offer this type of material testing to help companies comply with regulations to avoid costly penalties. Our laboratories also provide air quality testing for formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds for those concerned about exposure risks lurking in the air they breathe indoors.”

To learn more about formaldehyde testing or other material, indoor air quality and environmental services, please visit www.EMSL.com, email  info@EMSL.com  or call (800) 220-3675.


About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with over 46 locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP 797, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOC’s, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.

Contact Information

Joseph Frasca

Senior Vice President of Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

(1) 856-303-2503

Contact via E-mail