Formaldehyde Detectors in Perth & Australia | The Dangers of Breathing in HCHO

Formaldehyde (HCHO), also known as methanal, an organic compound is a colourless, flammable, pungent smelling chemical that is used in building materials and to produce many household products. It is a common Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) that may be present in the air you breathe. It is used in pressed-wood products, such as particleboard, plywood, and fibreboard, glues and adhesives, permanent-press fabric, paper product coatings, certain insulation materials. Other potential indoor sources of formaldehyde include cigarette smoke and the use of unwanted fuel burning appliances such as gas stoves, wood burning stoves and kerosene heaters.

Formaldehyde can also be present in a wide range of consumer products where it is used as a preservative to protect from bacteria. These include;

• Household cleaning agents
• Dishwashing liquids
• Fabric softeners
• Shoe care products
• Car shampoos and waxes
• Carpet cleaning products
• Disinfectants

Exposure occurs primarily by inhaling formaldehyde gas or vapour from the air or by absorbing liquids containing formaldehyde through the skin. When formaldehyde is present in the air at levels exceeding 0.1 ppm, some individuals may experience adverse effects such as;

• Watery eyes
• Burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Nausea
• Skin irritation

It is extremely irritating to the mucous membranes and respiritory system and is associated with certain types of cancer in humans and other animals. Formaldehyde is classified as a human carcinogen (cancer causing substance).