Assessment of exposure to formaldehyde in Pathology

Introduction
Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable gas at room temperature. It has a pungent smell and low levels can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, nose and throat. The sources of exposure are varied and the general population is exposed to small amounts of formaldehyde in the air from various natural and anthropogenic sources. One of its main uses is in the preservation of tissues in many hospitals and laboratories. The short-term exposure to high levels is described in embalmers, pathologists, teachers and students who handle in formaldehyde preserved biological elements. Since June 2004 the WHO reclassified formaldehyde as a human carcinogen and is associated with lung and nasopharyngeal cancer. Scarce information and very few background data are available in Uruguay regarding this toxic chemical exposure.

Methods
The aim of this study is to assess whether staff working in the area of pathology is exposed to gas and how to prevent this exposure. A survey was conducted in two university hospitals, which have areas of pathology where this chemical is used. The sampling methodology used was that recommended by NIOSH No. 2016. Analytical technique was developed in the Department of Toxicology and Environmental Hygiene, Faculty of Chemistry, based on that recommended by NIOSH. Environmental and personal samples were taken to evaluate exposure in different workplaces using formaldehyde (microscopy, autopsy room, sample preparation). We took 16 samples.

Results
The environmental results of this study vary from 0.7 to 2.1 mg/m3. Uruguay embraces the values recommended by ACGIH. For formaldehyde TLV-C is 0.4 mg/m3.

Discussion
The results showed the importance of improving working conditions in these laboratories. Actions must be taken to decrease the risk of exposure (teachers, students, workers). The personal protective equipment are essential, and information and training of all those involved workers using this chemical is proposed.