Results of Formaldehyde Testing of Building Liquidator Flooring

We have tested a number of homes for formaldehyde gas levels that have Building Liquidator flooring installed.

Our results so far show formaldehyde levels ranging from .095 ppm to .045 ppm.

These levels are  above California standard of .05 ppm., or within within the standard deviation. In addition, these levels are within the standard deviation of acceptable EPA levels of .1 ppm.

We have recommended that our clients take prompt action; e.g. removing the flooring promptly.

To test for formaldehyde in a home we use the following process that is conducted by a Certified Microbial Consultant. We charge $275 (in the Orange County area of California); which includes the test and written test results from an AHIA lab. Results take about 48 to 72 hours.

Formaldehyde Vapor Monitor

General

The Formaldehyde Vapor Monitor is used to measure personal exposure or room concentrations. This monitoring badge will be accepted in as accurate in any inspection or dispute, because it is validated for accuracy, and analyzed in an AIHA-LAP, LLC accredited laboratory.

Indoor Air Quality

For measurement of indoor air quality, The EPA and The American Lung Assoc. recommend a maximum level of 0.1 ppm; California recommend 0.05 ppm. Some people may be sensitive to lower levels. The monitoring badge is placed in a room with suspect flooring for about 24 hours. Then it will be accurate at a level of 0.003 ppm (3 parts per billion). For a 48 hour exposure, the minimum level is even lower.

OSHA Regulations

Each person who uses formaldehyde as a regular part of their job must have their exposure monitored periodically, according to OSHA regulations. 

There are two conditions that must be met to comply with the OSHA Standards for personal exposure in the workplace. First, the concentration for an 8 hour period must be less than 0.75 ppm. Second, the maximum exposure during any 15 minute interval must be less than 2.0 ppm. There is also an “action level” at 0.5 ppm for an 8 hour period. Above the action level more frequent monitoring is needed to avoid the need for protective equipment and for medical testing. 

The Formaldehyde Vapor Monitor meets OSHA accuracy requirements for both the full shift and short-term measurements.

Principle of Operation

Collection of formaldehyde vapor by diffusion in the monitor and collection on a chemical activated solid adsorbent. Analysis is done by methods validated for accuracy by The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) and by The National Institute of Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH).