Environmental Health & Safety
Laboratory Safety Sub Committee
HARVARD UNIVERSITY SAFETY ALERT
FORMALDEHYDE
(Permissible Exposure Limit over 8hr. Time weighted Average=0.37ppm;
Short Term Exposure Limit=2.0 ppm.; Odor Threshold=1 ppm.)
Many of our laboratories use formaldehyde (formalin, formic aldehyde, methyl aldehyde). A carcinogen and possible mutagen, formaldehyde is highly toxic if swallowed, inhaled, absorbed though the skin, or contacted by the eyes. An air concentration of 20 ppm. is quickly irritating to the eyes; Rubber gloves, goggles and lab coats should always be worn when working with formaldehyde or formaldehyde solutions and, in general, all work with formaldehyde should be done in a hood or with the use of a respirator. When aqueous formaldehyde solutions are heated above their flash points, a potential for explosion hazard exists. Store away from heat and flame. As with all laboratory chemicals, do not mouth pipet formaldehyde solutions and be sure that such solutions are clearly labeled.
Symptoms of exposure may include coughing, chest pains, difficulty in breathing, vomiting and diarrhea. In case of exposure by inhalation, remove to fresh air, then call UHS, or, if breathing is difficult, call the Harvard Police for immediate medical attention. For eye or skin exposure, immediately flush with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing and get medical attention. In case of ingestion, call the Harvard Police for immediate medical attention.
As with all accidents, report any exposure as soon as possible to your Lab Supervisor and Lab Director.
Dispose of formaldehyde properly, depending on other chemicals or isotopes present.
If you have any questions or concerns about the use of formaldehyde in your lab, please call the Safety Office to arrange for a workplace evaluation. Also, additional safety information on formaldehyde and other chemicals can be obtained by calling the Safety Office or the E.H.&S. office.
| Phone Numbers | ||
| Office | Days | Nights,Weekends |
|---|---|---|
| POLICE | 5-1212 | 5-1212 |
| UNIV. HEALTH SERVICES | 5-5711 | 5-5711 |
| ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY | 5-2852 | 5-5560 |
| CMB SAFETY OFFICE | 5-7767 | 5-5560 |
| CMB DIRECTOR'S OFFICE | 5-2302 | 5-5560 |