Formaldehyde: health and safety guide No. 57

This document provides a health and safety guide on formaldehyde, summarizing its chemical identity, physical and chemical properties, analytical methods, and widespread industrial and consumer applications. It details formaldehyde’s effects on human health, including its irritant, allergenic, and carcinogenic potential, particularly upon inhalation or dermal contact, and provides data from both animal and human studies. The guide outlines exposure scenarios in occupational and residential settings, discusses metabolism and environmental fate, and evaluates ecological toxicity. It also delivers detailed recommendations for risk mitigation across various sectors, including workplace safety, cosmetics, disinfection, and laboratory use, emphasizing ventilation, protective equipment, and emergency procedures. Regulatory guidelines and international exposure limits are compiled, along with safe storage, handling, transport, and disposal practices.