The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations require employers to monitor formaldehyde or xylene vapor concentrations in any laboratory where these chemicals are used. OSHA defines the permissible exposure limit (PEL) and requires that the laboratory keep records of results and take remedial action when exposure limits are exceeded.
With formaldehyde, initial monitoring is performed to identify workers exposed to vapors that meet or exceed the defined short-term average exposure (STEL) limit. Based on the results, repeated, periodic monitoring may be required. Initial monitoring must be repeated whenever a change in production, equipment, or process may result in new or additional exposure to formaldehyde.
Xylene must be monitored initially, but there is no requirement for periodic monitoring of xylene.
If they are concerned about exposure, associates should immediately report symptoms to management for care and follow-up. Symptoms may include respiratory signs or dermal conditions. Associates may also request that the laboratory monitor formalin levels to ensure they are within safe limits.
