Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and is found in many building materials including pressed or laminate wood flooring, spray foam insulation, furniture and other building materials. Adverse health effects have been reported even at very low levels.  Exposure symptoms include upper airway irritation, dry or sore throat, nosebleeds, itching and burningsensations of the nose, nasal congestion and an accumulation of fluid in the lungs. Long term exposure can result in adverse effects on the central nervous system, headaches, depression, mood changes, insomnia, irritability, attention deficit, and impairment of dexterity, memory, and balance.  Children exposed to the same levels of formaldehyde as adults may receive larger doses because of their developing bodies. Furthermore, they may be exposed to higher levels than adults in the same location because they are shorter and higher levels of formaldehyde may be found at ground level.

The best way to see if a suspected material contains formaldehyde is to send physical bulk samples of it to a certified laboratory. The material is placed in a chamber where it off-gasses and the formaldehyde levels are measured. Air testing can be achieved by using the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Method 2016 using a sorbent tube. The sorbent tube is connected to a low flow pump adapter for approximately 20 minutes. The sample is sent back to the laboratory in a cold pack to maintain preservation.