2023-05-10 16:18:26
Formaldehyde is a chemical compound used in the manufacture of many products: maintenance, DIY, furniture, plastic, etc. It is therefore commonly present in homes and is a source of indoor pollution.
Formaldehyde: various sources of pollution in homes
Formaldehyde, also called formalin, is commonly used in various household products. Thus, when doing work or cleaning, it is possible to use it without knowing it.
Formaldehyde is found in resins, glues, paints, polyurethane foam insulation, particle board and plywood. The chemical substance is therefore present in many pieces of furniture, partitions and also floors and ceilings. Over time, depending on temperatures and humidity, these different products decompose. They then emit formaldehyde which mixes with the indoor air of homes.
You should also know that cleaning, DIY or decoration products are not the only sources of emanation. I’Considered cites other causes: “tobacco smoke, candles, incense sticks, open fireplaces, combustion appliances such as gas stoves, kerosene stoves. »
This chemical compound, which directly contributes to the pollution of housing, is therefore present in daily life in homes.
Formalin and its health consequences
Formaldehyde has been proven to be an irritating compound that can cause: “burning sensations in the eyes, nose and throat” as the canadian government. It also points out that it can: “aggravate asthma symptoms, especially in children and infants” and that it can also: “be linked to other respiratory symptoms and allergic sensitivity. These problems are the consequence of long-term exposure or high concentrations.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified formaldehyde as a: “substance carcinogenic to humans”. Indeed, the compound is […] at the origin of airborne nasopharyngeal cancers in humans” according to ANSES. The agency specifies that the disease has been observed: “among workers exposed to high concentrations of formaldehyde. »
In a classic home, the risk of cancer is lower, despite the presence of formaldehyde, because the concentrations are lower. Nevertheless, to avoid possible problems at the respiratory level, it is advisable to minimize the amount of formalin in the accommodation.
Limit the presence of formaldehyde in indoor air
A few actions, easy to implement, on a daily basis, can reduce indoor pollution generated by formaldehyde.
Thus, it is necessary to ensure that the ventilation of the house is compliant. It is also essential to ventilate, every day, to renew the air. Ventilation must be more regular and longer when work is carried out in the house.
It is also necessary to reduce the sources of formaldehyde by avoiding the purchase of certain do-it-yourself, maintenance, decoration and furnishing products. Finally, it is not recommended to smoke indoors and always clean the fireplaces and wood stoves.
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