Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde (IUPAC name methanal) is a chemical compound with the formula H₂CO. It is the simplest aldehyde. Formaldehyde exists in several forms aside from H₂CO: the cyclic trimer trioxane and the polymer paraformaldehyde. It exists in water as the hydrate H₂C(OH)₂. Aqueous solutions of formaldehyde are referred to as formalin. "100%" formalin consists of a saturated solution of formaldehyde (roughly 40% by mass) in water, with a small amount of stabilizer, usually methanol to limit oxidation and polymerization. It is produced on a substantial scale of 6M tons/y. In view of its widespread use, toxicity, and volatility, exposure to formaldehyde is significant consideration for human health.
This chemical is classified as an irritant and a potential cancer-causing hazard. Occupational safetyand health rules establish one part per million for an eight-hour average as the permissible exposure limit. Studies show that levels as high as 10 parts per million have been found in mortuary and funeral home preparation rooms.
To avoid the overexposure of workers to formaldehyde, the preferred method is to provide engineering controls in the workplace environment. This would be some type of mechanical exhaust ventilation system which pulls contaminated air away from an employee's breathing zone and vents it to the outside of the building. If engineering controls are not feasible given a specific work environment, then, at a minimum, employers are required to provide respirators for all workers overexposed to formaldehyde.
In addition, employers are required to take air monitoring samples regularly to determine if overexposures are occurring. If this is the case, the employer must provide medical surveillance or monitoring (periodic physical examinations). Medical surveillance is initiated at the employee's request and paid for by the employer. All air sampling and medical surveillance records must be maintained by the employer for 30 years.
Employers also are required to provide Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) to workers at all times. This includes gloves, chemical goggles, and face shields. In the event that a worker is splashed with formaldehyde and there is direct exposure to the skin and eyes, employers are required to provide (two-jet type) eye washes (plumbed) and quick-drench showers. Both of these must be Immediately available in the area where employees are exposed to chemicals. If a worker is splashed in the eyes with formaldehyde, 15 minutes of flushing with a water-pressure eye wash is necessary. Other chemical hazards found in mortuaries and funeral homes may include industrial cleaning and sterilization products. The same Personal Protective Equipment can be used effectively in the presence of these chemicals.