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ge. When the products are new, high indoor
temperatures or humidity can cause increased release of
formaldehyde from these products.
During the 1970s, many homeowners had ureaformaldehyde foam
insulation (UFFI) installed in the wall cavities of their homes
as an energy conservation measure. However, many of these homes
were found to have relatively high indoor concentrations of
formaldehyde soon after the UFFI installation. Few homes are now
being insulated with this product. Studies
(continued on page 23)
show that formaldehyde emissions from UFFI decline with time;
therefore, homes in which UFFI was installed many years ago are
unlikely to have high levels of formaldehyde now.
Health Effects of Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde, a colorless, pungent smelling gas, can cause watery
eyes, burning sensations in the eyes and throat, nausea, and
difficulty in breathing in some humans exposed at elevated levels
(above 0.1 parts per million). High concentrations may trigger
attacks in people with asthma. There is evidence that some people
can develop a sensitivity to formaldehyde. It has also been shown
to cause cancer in animals and may cause cancer in humans.
Reducing Exposure to Formaldehyde in Homes
Ask about the formaldehyde content of pressed wood products,
including building materials, cabinetry, and furniture before you
purchase them.
If you experience adverse reactions to formaldehyde, you may want
to avoid the use of pressed wood products and other formaldehyde
emitting goods. Even if you do not experience such reactions, you
may wish to reduce your exposure as much as possible by
purchasing exterior grade products, which emit less formaldehyde.
For further information on formaldehyde and consumer products,
call the EPA Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) assistance line
(2025541404).
Some studies suggest that coating pressed wood products with
polyurethane may reduce formaldehyde emissions for some period of
time. To be effective, any such coating must cover all surfaces
and edges and remain intact. Increase the ventilation and
carefully follow the manufacturer s instructions while applying
these coatings. (If you are sensitive to formaldehyde, check the
label contents before purchasing coating products to avoid buying
products that contain formaldehyde, as they will emit the
chemical for a short time after application.)
Maintain moderate temperature and humidity levels and provide
adequate ventilation.
The rate at which formaldehyde is released is accelerated by heat
and may also depend somewhat on the humidity level. Therefore,
the use of dehumidifiers and air conditioning to control humidity
and to maintain a moderate temperature can help reduce
formaldehyde emissions. (Drain and clean dehumidifier collection
trays frequently so that they do not become a breeding ground for
microorganisms.) Increasing the rate of ventilation in your home
will also help in reducing formaldehyde levels.
PESTICIDES
According to a recent survey, 75 percent of U.S. households
used at least one pesticide product indoors during the past year.
Products used most often are insecticides and disinfectants.
Another study suggests that 80 90 percent of most people s
exposure to pesticides occurs indoors and that measurable
levels of up to a dozen pesticides have been found in the air
inside homes. The amount of pesticides found in homes appears to
be greater than can be explained by recent pesticide use in those
households; other possible sources include contaminated soil or
dust that floats or is tracked in from outside, stored pesticide
containers, and household surfaces that collect and then release
the pesticides. Pesticides used in and around the home include
products to control insects (insecticides), termites
(termiticides), rodents (rodenticides), fungi (fungicides), and
microbes (disinfectants). They are sold as sprays, liquids,
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