What Is Formaldehyde?

Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring compound. It usually presents in the form of strong-smelling gas that can change into different forms. Formaldehyde is present in plants, animals and humans, and can pose a danger to your health. It is used in many building and household products that are in every-day use. Mold Testing NJ-NY is an Indoor Air Quality Inspection and Testing service that includes testing for formaldehyde as part of a certified IAQ evaluation.

How Is Formaldehyde A Danger To One’s Health?

Formaldehyde can cause eye and nasal irritation, headaches, burning in the throat, and can result in asthma symptoms. It is thought to have the potential to cause changes in the nervous system. Exposure to Formaldehyde may also result in more serious health problems, such as certain types of cancer.

How Can You Be Exposed to Formaldehyde?

Formaldehyde is present everywhere, and although it breaks down quickly and doesn’t accumulate in the body, it is toxic. Chronic and long term exposure can cause illness.

Formaldehyde is used in construction materials and is considered an indoor air pollutant. It is given off by treated wood products such as plywood or particleboard. It is also found in paint, varnish, and floor finishing products. Formaldehyde can be found in cigarette smoke. This element is also present in permanent press finish clothing and in some cosmetics. It can cause skin lesions, dermatitis, and eye irritation. In some countries it is even used as a food preservative. 

In most cases the irritation caused by exposure to formaldehyde is temporary and reversible. Some air purifiers include filters that inhibit formaldehyde concentration in the air. Good ventilation in indoor areas is essential in limiting exposure to formaldehyde and other indoor air impurities. Manufacturer labels on products that will come in direct contact with your skin or eyes should be checked to see if they contain formaldehyde.

Qualified Indoor Air Quality Inspections Can Reveal Formaldehyde

Mold Testing NJ-NY is an experienced Indoor Air Quality inspection and testing service. We inspect, test and recommend possible clean-up, we do not remediate. In this way you can be assured you are receiving an honest and unbiased report on the condition of the air in your home. We serve homeowners in Bergen County and nearby areas of NJ and NY. If you are concerned about levels of impurities in the air in your home give us a call for an inspection appointment. We can be reached at (201) 658-8881. Mold Testing NJ-NY provides inspections and testing for Mold and Radon in addition to Indoor Air Quality.