Formaldehyde: What is It? How is it Toxic? What is it Found In?

Formaldehyde Levels in Modular, Mobile and Pre-Fab Homes Issued to Hurricane Katrina Victims Contain Toxic Levels

Victims of Hurricane Katrina victims have finnally been issued mobile homes by FEMA so that they have a semi-permanent dwelling in the flood destroyed and damaged neighborhoods of New Orleans, LA. Unfortunately, the mobile homes issued contain extremely toxic levels of formaldehyde. Formaldehyde, otherwise known colloquially as 'embalming fluid', is a chemical that retards or inhibits the growth of mold in products.

There are two types of formaldehyde compounds used in building: Urea-formaldehyde (UF): urea is a the toxic chemical contained in urine. Phenol-formaldehyde (PF) is another form. Both are resinous and are elements in combustion, according to the EPA (Environmentally Protection Agency). They are highly toxic, although PF is somewhat less toxic. Improperly vented fossil-fuel (natural gas, propane, kerosene) burning appliances emit formaldehyde as well. Some foods contain traces of formaldehyde also; BHA and BHT are preservatives used in packaged baked goods and cereals.

Mobile homes, trailers or pre-fabricated homes are routinely treated with formaldehyde to prevent mold from growing in the structures as they sit, closed waiting for occupancy. Because a modular home sits closed up and vacant, the wood cabinets will mold if not treated. The modular units sent to New Orleans flood victims were probably older models that did not sell as well. Because they were new and unused, they probably have sat vacant for several years. The longer a unit sits used, the more concentrated the fumes become and the stronger the formaldehyde smell becomes. Additionally, the fumes become more toxic in the summer heat and humidity.

Formaldehyde is also used heavily in products made from pressed wood or particle board also. Particle board is basically pressed sawdust. Mold and mildew will form more easily in products made from particle board. Cabinets, counter tops, cupboards, wall board and furnishings that are mass produced routinely use particle board because it is cheap. Of course mobile home manufacturers depend almost exclusively particle board.