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Formaldehyde is a chemical compound of the aldehyde family. It is probably the most common indoor toxic substance.
Classified as carcinogenic by WHO (see summary) and medically known for its mutagenic, neurotoxic, sensitizing and allergenic properties.
It may cause the following symptoms:
So why is it found indoors?
Industry uses it as an adhesive, preservative, disinfectant, biocide, degreaser, solvent, waterproofing agent, lubricant, wood preservative, coolant, etc.
In buildings, it is introduced through building materials (melamine board furniture, wood varnishes, adhesives…), hygiene products, cosmetics, tobacco smoke…
Formaldehyde is highly volatile and emanates quite rapidly as a colourless gas with a pungent, suffocating odor. However, in chipboard, which is the main source of indoor emissions, it is slowly released over a period of years.
WHO recommends that indoor formaldehyde levels should not exceed 0.05 parts per million. These recommended values can be accumulated relatively easily with the existence of a single source. Occupational exposure limits in Spain set a daily environmental exposure limit value of 0.3ppm. Their use is not prohibited, only regulated.
The following recommendations are given to minimise their presence in the home. The optimum value should be 0.0ppm:
In case of pungent, intense and penetrating odours, a professional formaldehyde measurement is recommended.
Rambla Salvador Samà, 47
Vilanova i la Geltrú – Barcelona
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