Formaldehyde*

Sources: Pressed wood products (hardwood plywood wall paneling, particleboard, fiberboard) and furniture made with these pressed wood products. Urea-formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI). Combustion sources and environmental tobacco smoke. Durable press drapes, other textiles, and glues.

Health Effects: Eye, nose, and throat irritation; wheezing and coughing; fatigue; skin rash; severe allergic reactions. May cause cancer. May also cause other effects listed under "organic gases."

Levels in Homes: Average concentrations in older homes without UFFI are generally well below 0.1 (ppm). In homes with significant amounts of new pressed wood products, levels can be greater than 0.3 ppm.

Steps to Reduce Exposure:

• Use "exterior-grade" pressed wood products (lower-emitting because they contain phenol resins, not urea resins).
  
  
• Use air conditioning and dehumidifiers to maintain moderate temperature and reduce humidity levels.
  
  
• Increase ventilation, particularly after bringing new sources of formaldehyde into the home.

* From www.epa.gov