Formaldehyde exposure in work and the general environment. Occurrence and possibilities for prevention.

Abstract

Formaldehyde is used for many different purposes. For this reason, serious concern has been expressed about the health hazards related to its potent irritating and sensitizing properties. Recently published information about the potential carcinogenicity of formaldehyde has generated further discussion of the potential health hazards of this compound. The health hazards of formaldehyde, the occurrence of formaldehyde in the environment and general aspects of the prevention of existing hazards were reviewed.