Formaldehyde: an invisible and harmful gas
Formaldehyde is a colourless gas with a sharp, pungent odour. It is widely used in resins, adhesives and binders for wood-based products, insulation materials and textiles. Exposure can cause irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract, and prolonged inhalation may pose significant health risks.
Why is formaldehyde hazardous?
Working safely in an environment with formaldehyde starts with clean air
Formaldehyde (CAS 50-00-0) is a highly reactive volatile organic compound (VOC) that disperses rapidly in the air. Inhalation can have immediate effects on the eyes, mucous membranes and respiratory system.
- Carcinogenic (Category 1B)
Formaldehyde is classified as a CMR substance and is designated by the EU as carcinogenic (Carc. 1B). The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies formaldehyde as carcinogenic to humans, with sufficient evidence linking occupational exposure to nasopharyngeal cancer and leukaemia. - Irritant and sensitiser
Short-term exposure may cause irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, coughing and shortness of breath. Formaldehyde can also lead to skin and respiratory sensitisation, meaning repeated exposure may trigger allergic reactions. - Long-term effects
Prolonged or repeated exposure increases the risk of chronic respiratory conditions and cancer. Adverse effects may occur even at relatively low concentrations, which is why strict exposure limits apply.
Exposure limits
In the Netherlands, the occupational exposure limit for formaldehyde is 0.15 mg/m³ as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA) and 0.5 mg/m³ for short-term exposure (15 minutes).
Employers are responsible for ensuring a safe working environment. Exposure to hazardous substances such as formaldehyde must be minimised in accordance with the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable). When measured exposure exceeds 10% of the applicable limit, action must be taken to further reduce exposure.
STOP-principle
To manage risks effectively, control measures must follow the recognised hierarchy of controls:
- Substitution: eliminate the source or replace it with a less hazardous alternative
- Technical measures: such as local exhaust ventilation and air filtration
- Organisational measures: such as job rotation or limiting exposure time
- Personal protective equipment (PPE): used where risks cannot be adequately controlled by other measures
Within this hierarchy, air filtration is an effective technical measure to structurally reduce formaldehyde concentrations in indoor air.
Do you know the level of formaldehyde in your environment?
Formaldehyde may be noticeable by smell at higher concentrations, but odour is not a reliable indicator of safe exposure. Measuring is therefore essential.
Euromate works with independent specialists who measure VOC concentrations, including formaldehyde, using validated methods. Based on these results, it is determined whether exposure limits are approached or exceeded. You then receive clear, practical advice on appropriate control measures.
Our approach
- Assessment of risks in your workspace
- Measurement by an independent specialist
- Tailored advice on air quality improvement
- Installation of the appropriate air cleaning system
- Ongoing monitoring and control of air quality
The right approach to formaldehyde in indoor air
To reduce concentrations in indoor air, specialised gas filtration is required. Our systems use a dedicated filter medium.
Benefits of targeted gas filtration
- Reduces formaldehyde concentrations in indoor air
- Supports compliance with occupational exposure limits
- Can be used alongside existing ventilation systems
- Provides continuous air cleaning for stable air quality
Frequently asked questions about formaldehyde in the workplace
Formaldehyde is a colourless, volatile gas widely used in industrial processes and building materials. It belongs to the group of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Common sources include wood-based products containing formaldehyde resins, adhesives, insulation materials, textiles, laboratories and certain disinfectants or preservatives.
ContactNo. Although formaldehyde has a characteristic odour, smell is not a reliable indicator of safe concentrations. Irritation may already occur at or below exposure limits.
Follow the hierarchy of control measures: eliminate or substitute the source where possible, apply technical solutions such as ventilation and air filtration, implement organisational measures and use PPE when necessary.
Looking to reduce formaldehyde exposure in your workplace? Request expert advice
