The news is out today that the CDC and FEMA have found excessive levels of formaldehyde in the post Katrina trailers.

This is a tragedy that adds to the already sizable burden of Katrina tragedies.

But, it also brings out into the open the dangers of formaldehyde in building materials. Not just in the Katrina trailers. But, in any trailer or home.

The agencies found up to 5 times the level of formaldehyde in the trailers compared to levels in the average house. According to published EPA information, formaldehyde is a common contaminant in indoor areas due to off-gassing from common building materials. This risk becomes greater if the space is smaller and the temperature higher. The testing was prompted by complaints of respiratory problems, nose bleeds and mouth tumors. The Washington Post reported on the formaldehyde concerns back in July, 2007.

Building materials that contain and off-gas formaldehyde include plywood and particle board, multiple types of adhesives, insulation used in the 70’s, cabinets, carpets, walls, furniture and permanent press cloth.Formaldehyde has multiple health effects. It is a strong eye and respiratory irritant as well as a skin irritant. Asthma can be worsened or caused my formaldehyde. It also effects the nervous system and can cause headaches, fatigue and depression. Animal studies have found it to be a potential human carcinogen. Yikes!

In other words, there is nothing funny about formaldehyde. And………it’s not just found in Katrina’s trailers.

Since we would really like to find a happier note to end on, we’ll point out that, luckily, you can now buy building materials with low or no formaldehyde.

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