EPA Finalizes Formaldehyde Risk Evaluation Under TSCA – Highlighting Cancer Risks

On January 2, 2025, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized it's risk evaluation for formaldehyde under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The Agency concluded that formaldehyde poses an unreasonable risk of harm to human health under various conditions of use. Widely present in everyday products and the environment, formaldehyde has been linked to significant health risks, especially for workers and consumers exposed over time. 

Understanding Formaldehyde Exposure 

Formaldehyde (CAS No 50-00-0) is a common industrial chemical found in products such as adhesives, paints, textiles, and construction materials. It is also a byproduct of combustion processes such as car emissions and stove operations and is naturally released during the decomposition of organic materials. 

Due to its widespread presence, most people are exposed to formaldehyde in both indoor and outdoor environments, primarily through inhalation or skin contact. Common sources include composite wood furniture, adhesives, and various household products. Workers in manufacturing and processing environments are at the greatest risks, particularly without adequate protective equipment. Additionally, consumers who use products such as crafting supplies, automotive care products, or new leather goods may encounter health hazards, particularly when the products are new and emit higher concentrations of formaldehyde. 

Health Impacts Identified by EPA 

EPA's evaluation highlighted both short-term and long-term health risks: 

• Short-term (acute) exposure can cause sensory irritation, including inflammation of the eyes and respiratory tract, which typically resolves after exposure ends. 

• Long-term (chronic) exposure is linked to reduced lung function, increased risk of asthma and allergies, and cancer. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, with prolonged inhalation posing significant cancer risks, especially for workers. Skin contact with materials containing formaldehyde can also trigger allergic reactions. 

Conditions of Use and Findings 

EPA examined 68 conditions of use (COU) for formaldehyde and found that 50 occupational and 8 consumer COUs contribute significantly to unreasonable risks. While some risks were identified from chronic exposure to air near industrial facilities, they were deemed minimal due to natural degradation, modeling uncertainties, and upcoming regulations. Additionally, formaldehyde poses no significant environmental risks as it breaks down quickly in water, soil, and sediment, minimizing its impact on plants, animals, and ecosystems. 

What’s next? 

EPA will now initiate the risk management process under TSCA Section 6 to address the risk of formaldehyde. This will include proposing new rules to protect workers and consumers and ensure safer chemical management across industries.