EPA Begins Investigation of Formaldehyde

Washington, DC, Dec. 2, 2008--The Environmental Protection Agency is starting its investigation into the health effects of formaldehyde in pressed wood products.

The issue of formaldehyde exposure drew national attention when FEMA and the CDC allowed high levels of formaldehyde in temporary housing supplied for Hurricane Katrina victims. Many later complained of health problems they associated with the toxic indoor air.

The EPA agreed to conduct a four-part investigation of the issue several months ago, and it opened a 60-day public comment period, and announced five public hearings.

The process will define risks and could set new standards for reducing exposure to formaldehyde.

The EPA is reviewing formaldehyde, which it already labels a "probable" human carcinogen, only because environmental groups and 5,000 individuals petitioned to make the federal watchdog consider the toxicity of the chemical, common in household products as a preservative, a component of glue or a chemical adding "permanent press" qualities to draperies and clothing.

Exposure to formaldehyde can come from plywood, particleboard and fiberboard used in manufactured housing materials, including cabinets, flooring and other wood-based products. Often, it's the glue holding these products together that contains formaldehyde, which "off-gases" over time, so that people can breathe in toxic vapors.