Formaldehyde Rules Clear the Air

Formaldehyde is a common household chemical, present in everything from building products to appliances to furniture to cabinetry. California seeks to limit and eventually phase out formaldehyde due to related health concerns, including a link  to cancer. Formaldehyde is one of the cancer-causing chemicals used in cigarettes linked to lung cancer.

The Airborne Toxic Control Measure was set forth by the California Air Resources Board. Also known as CARB, the California Air Resources Board is the division of California’s EPA that addresses air pollution and has been a key player in California’s AB32, the Global Warming Solutions Act, currently in litigation with the federal government.

A correlation between formaldehyde and cancer has been found in studies conducted jointly with the National Cancer Institute, the EPA and OSHA. People who work with formaldehyde are shown to be at particular risk, such as embalmers and other health professionals as well as textile producers.

By addressing formaldehyde, CARB raises the standard for building materials in California, most notably various pressed woods like particle-board, plywood and paneling. Because California has such a vast construction market, increasing the standard in California may lead to changes throughout the United States. Consumers can also protect themselves by purchasing “exterior grade” wood products, recommended by the EPA.