P.1.09 Risk assessment of exposure to formaldehyde in university laboratories

Objective Formaldehyde is a commonly used chemical in laboratories and has been regarded as a potential hazard to health. Researchers and students who work in medical laboratories have potentially a higher risk of exposure to Formaldehyde. The aim of this study was to determine the risk of exposure to formaldehyde and its health effects in laboratories. Methods In a cross-sectional survey air samples were collected with charcoal tubes from 23 anatomy, pathology and histopathology laboratories. Personal and time weighted exposures of 102 samples were sampled and analyzed using OSHA method. A questionnaire was distributed to 83 participants engaged in laboratory activities to examine the adverse health effects of formaldehyde. Results Overall, 92.3% of the personal exposure levels were higher than the occupational exposure limit. The area concentrations ranged between 0.234 ppm and 3.45 ppm (mean=1.43 ppm, SD=0.45). Individual exposure levels in respiratory zone ranged 0.219 ppm and 1.96 ppm (mean=0.573 ppm, SD=0.39). The risk of Formaldehyde exposure levels were higher for researchers and technicians compared to students with a factor of two or three. Participants with a duration of exposure more than 2 years had an increased risk of health symptoms (Hazard ratio=1.4; Confidence Interval=0.8–3.7). Laboratory personnel reported physical fatigue (39.1%), headache (32.7%), breathing problems (21.1%), noise irritation (17.4%), and eye irritation (14.9%). Conclusion The concentration levels of Formaldehyde vapor in laboratory indoor air were higher compared to individual exposure levels. Work in laboratories is associated with exposure levels exceeding the recommended exposure limit and an increased risk of health complaints. Preventive measures are required to reduce the emission of airborne formaldehyde and prevalent health-related symptoms in academic medical laboratories.