Formaldehyde Fact Sheet and Training Aid
(Adopted from OSHA standard 29 CFR 1910.1048)
Introduction
To protect workers exposed to formaldehyde, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard (29 CFR 1910.1048) applies to formaldehyde gas, its solutions, and a variety of material such as trioxane, paraformaldehyde, and resin formulations, and solids and mixtures containing formaldehyde that serve as sources of the substance. In addition to setting permissible exposure levels, exposure monitoring and training, the standard requires medical surveillance and medical removal, record keeping, regulated areas, hazard communication, emergency procedures, primary reliance on engineering and work practices to control exposure, and maintenance and selection of personal protective equipment.
The permissible exposure limit (PEL) for formaldehyde in all workplaces (including general industry, construction, and maritime, but not in agriculture) covered by the OSH Act is 0.75 ppm measured as an 8‑hour time weighted average (TWA). The standard includes a 2 ppm short‑term exposure limit (STEL)(i.e., maximum exposure allowed during a 15‑minute period). The "action level" is 0.5 ppm measured over 8 hours.
The standard requires that the employer conduct initial monitoring to identify all employees who are exposed to formaldehyde at or above the action level or STEL and to accurately determine the exposure of each employee so identified.
If the exposure level is maintained below the STEL and the action level, employers may discontinue exposure monitoring, until such there is a change which could affect exposure levels. The employer must also monitor employee exposure promptly, upon receiving reports of formaldehyde‑related signs and symptoms.
Substance
Formaldehyde
(Methanal; 37% aqueous solution (usually containing 10 to 15% methanol)
is called formalin; solid polymer is called paraformaldehyde)
CAS 50-00-0
Formula
HCHO
Physical Properties
Clear, colorless liquid
Formaldehyde: Boiling point -19 °C, melting point -92 °C
Formalin: Boiling point 96 °C, melting point -15 °C
Miscible with water
Odor : Pungent odor detectable at 1 ppm
Vapor Density : ~1 (air = 1.0)
Vapor Pressure: Formaldehyde: 10 mmHg at -88 °C
Formalin: 23 to 26 mmHg at 25 °C
Flash Point : 50 °C for formalin containing 15% methanol
Autoignition Temperature : 424 °C for formalin containing 15% methanol
Toxicity Data
Lethal Dose oral (rat)
500 mg/kg
Lethal Dose skin (rabbit)
270 mg/kg
Lethal Concentration inhale (rat)
203 mg/m (2 hours)
Major Hazards
Probable human carcinogen (OSHA "select carcinogen"); moderate acute
toxicity; skin sensitizer.
Toxicity
Formaldehyde is moderately toxic by skin contact and inhalation. Exposure to formaldehyde gas can cause irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract, coughing, dry throat, tightening of the chest, headache, a sensation of pressure in the head, and palpitations of the heart. Exposure to 0.1 to 5 ppm causes irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat; above 10 ppm severe lacrimation occurs, burning in the nose and throat is experienced, and breathing becomes difficult. Acute exposure to concentrations above 25 ppm can cause serious injury, including fatal pulmonary edema. Formaldehyde has low acute toxicity via the oral route. Ingestion can cause irritation of the mouth, throat, and stomach, nausea, vomiting, convulsions, and coma. An oral dose of 30 to 100 mL of 37% formalin can be fatal in humans. Formalin solutions can cause severe eye burns and loss of vision. Eye contact may lead to delayed effects that are not appreciably eased by eye washing.
Formaldehyde is regulated by OSHA as a carcinogen (Standard 1910.1048) and is listed in IARC Group 2A ("probable human carcinogen"). This substance is classified as a "select carcinogen" under the criteria of the OSHA Laboratory Standard. Prolonged or repeated exposure to formaldehyde can cause dermatitis and sensitization of the skin and respiratory tract. Following skin contact, a symptom‑free period may occur in sensitized individuals. Subsequent exposures can then lead to itching, redness, and the formation of blisters.
Flammability and Explosibility
Formaldehyde gas is extremely flammable; formalin solution is a combustible liquid (NFPA rating = 2 for 37% formaldehyde (15% methanol), NFPA rating = 4 for 37% formaldehyde (methanol free)). Toxic vapors may be given off in a fire. Carbon dioxide or dry chemical extinguishers should be used to fight formaldehyde fires.
Reactivity and Incompatibility
Formaldehyde may react violently with strong oxidizing agents, ammonia and strong alkalis, isocyanates, peracids, anhydrides, and inorganic acids. Formaldehyde reacts with HCl to form the potent carcinogen, bis‑chloromethyl ether.
Storage and Handling
Because of its carcinogenicity and flammability, formaldehyde should be handled using the "basic prudent practices", supplemented by the additional precautions for work with compounds of high chronic toxicity and extremely flammable substances. In particular, work with formaldehyde should be conducted in a fume hood to prevent exposure by inhalation, and splash goggles and impermeable gloves should be worn at all times to prevent eye and skin contact. Formaldehyde should be used only in areas free of ignition sources. Containers of formaldehyde should be stored in secondary containers in areas separate from oxidizers and bases.
Accidents or Possible Exposures
In the event of skin contact, immediately wash with soap and water and remove contaminated clothing. In case of eye contact, promptly wash with copious amounts of water for 15 min (lifting upper and lower lids occasionally) and obtain medical attention from Occupational Medical Services located in 10/6C306; 496-4411. If formaldehyde is ingested, obtain medical attention immediately. If large amounts of this compound are inhaled, move the person to fresh air and seek medical attention at once.
In the event of a spill, remove all ignition sources, soak up the formaldehyde with a spill pillow or absorbent material, place in an appropriate container, and dispose of properly. Respiratory protection may be necessary in the event of a large spill or release in a confined area. In this situation, close all windows and leave the lab immediately (always make sure the lab door is closed behind you to prevent the vapors from moving into the hallway). Call 911 and alert operator of the spill. Do not re-enter the room until appropriate authorities determine the area is safe.
Disposal
Excess formaldehyde and waste material containing this substance should be placed in an appropriate container, clearly labeled, and handled according to your institution's waste disposal guidelines. For further information, contact the Environmental Protection Branch (EPB) at 496-7990 and for pick-up call 496-4710.
Last Updated 12/28/2009 10:41:45 AM
