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PEHSU Factsheet: Formaldehyde > Recommendations to Reduce Potential Exposure

Recommendations to Reduce Potential Exposure

posted on Aug 26, 2021

There are several steps that can be taken to reduce exposure to formaldehyde and other indoor air pollutants. Usually, source removal is the first step in industrial hygiene practice to decrease exposure. Additional options include:

  • Use products that are urea formaldehyde free.
  • Do not smoke, especially indoors because the smoke contains formaldehyde.
  • Let new products off-gas somewhere outside of your living space.
  • Wash permanent-press curtains and clothing before using them.
  • Try to keep temperature and humidity as low as possible because release of formaldehyde is directly associated with increases in temperature and humidity.
  • During installation and even shortly thereafter, increase ventilation. (Although if you have asthma and outdoor air pollution or pollen are your triggers, be aware that this might also increase those exposures)