Formaldehyde testing
Formaldehyde testing for UK commercial buildings
Quantify indoor formaldehyde with DNPH cartridge sampling and HPLC analysis. Defensible results against WHO 30-minute and chronic exposure references, with clear source attribution.
Why test
Formaldehyde concentration bands we report
Formaldehyde is a Group 1 carcinogen released by composite wood products, foam insulation, some textiles and combustion. Indoor levels routinely exceed outdoor concentrations — measurement is the only way to know.
<20 µg/m³
Outdoor-equivalent, no detectable source.
20–50
Typical well-managed commercial space.
50–100
Source review and ventilation increase.
>100
Exceeds WHO 30-minute guideline.
DNPH cartridge sampling
Active sampling through derivatised cartridges captures formaldehyde for HPLC analysis.
Post-refurbishment clearance
Confirm new joinery, flooring and finishes are safe before re-occupation.
Source attribution
Spot samples close to MDF, laminates and foam isolate the emitting material.
Complaint resolution
Quantify exposure when occupants report eye irritation or persistent throat symptoms.
When to test
Where formaldehyde testing is essential
New fit-outs, schools with composite-wood furniture, healthcare estates and any building where occupants report unexplained eye, nose or throat irritation. Pre-purchase due diligence on properties with unknown refurbishment history is another routine driver.
Pair with VOC testing, indoor air quality testing and ongoing continuous air quality monitoring.
Benchmarks
Reference thresholds for indoor formaldehyde
| Reference | Value | Application |
|---|---|---|
| WHO IAQ guideline (30-min) | 100 µg/m³ | Acute exposure ceiling |
| WELL Building Standard | <27 µg/m³ | Post-occupancy target |
| BREEAM Hea 02 (new build) | <100 µg/m³ | Pre-handover IAQ test |
| German AGÖF orientation | <60 µg/m³ | Long-term comfort |
| Outdoor reference (UK urban) | 5–15 µg/m³ | Baseline comparison |
Commission formaldehyde testing
Defensible cartridge sampling, lab quantification and a clear source-control plan.
Request a quoteRelated monitoring
Continuous data