Formaldehyde as an indoor pollutant†

Abstract

Formaldehyde has been known for many years as an indoor air pollutant coming from different pieces of furniture and panels in the rooms. A study of the concentrations of formaldehyde in the air of sixty selected structures panelled with urea‐formaldehyde resins was carried out in Spain. Air samples were collected in impingers and analyzed by 3‐Methyl‐2 Benzothiazolone‐hydrazone‐hydrochloride tests (M.B.T.H.) during the year 1984. The average concentration of formaldehyde was 552 μg/m3 with a range of 41–2823 mg/m3. Thirty‐nine homes were found to have concentrations exceeding the average value. These concentrations are higher than allowed indoor exposure standard. Health information was received by direct contact from individuals. Eye irritation, dry or sore throat, mucous membrane irritation, burning eyes, sneeze, runny nose, rash, cough, conjunctivitis, difficult breathing, pharyngytis, bronchitis, headache, weakness, vomiting, nausea, photophobia ... were the most frequent symptoms reported by the occupants. A complementary study was carried out using information on type of structure, age and heating systems of the building. Statistically significant relationship was observed between formaldehyde concentration and health data and between formaldehyde levels and installation age of panels in the structures.