Washing Clothes Can Reduce Formaldehyde Risk

Exposure to formaldehyde can be reduced by washing clothing before it is worn for the first time says the Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS).

The public's attention was recently drawn to the hazards of formaldehyde in imported clothing from China. There have been reports of high levels of formaldehyde in some clothing imported from China which were up to 900 times higher than that considered safe by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Medical Officer of Health at ARPHS, Dr Denise Barnfather says clothes often contain trace amounts of the chemical, which is used to give garments a permanent press appearance and to prevent mildew in transit.

"People can be exposed to formaldehyde in clothing by breathing it in, and by absorbing it through the skin," she says.

"Inhalation can irritate the eyes and the lungs commonly causing mild respiratory symptoms such as cough and sore throat, while contact with the skin can lead to symptoms of skin irritation such as dermatitis."

Dr Barnfather says some people who have been previously exposed to formaldehyde may develop a rash or allergy when exposed again. Large exposures have also been linked with cancer, particularly of the nose and throat.

Other ways to reduce exposure to the chemical include avoiding smoking indoors, and keeping homes well ventilated (particularly homes containing new materials or furnishings which often contain some formaldehyde). People whose symptoms are linked to a particular item of clothing are advised to discard the garment.

Formaldehyde is found everywhere in our environment and most arises from the process of combustion. It is generally found in the air with the highest concentrations indoors. Small amounts are present in many consumer products and in tobacco smoke.

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs is urgently investigating this issue and says that the company AgriQuality will begin testing clothing from next week. New Zealand does not have a standard for formaldehyde levels in textiles and the investigation will also look at standards and testing regimes overseas. Currently, 800 Superlux blankets sold to the public under the Gainsborough brand are being recalled due to high levels of formaldehyde.
The public are advised to see their doctor if concerned about symptoms that may be related to formaldehyde exposure. People with symptoms may also ring the National Poisons Centre on 0800 POISON.

Ends

==

© Scoop Media