Formaldehyde is a versatile chemical. In some countries, such as Europe and the United Kingdom, it is employed as a method of sterilizing medical equipment. It accomplishes this in a steam form. Other methods employ the substance as a gas in vapor cabinets to sterilize certain heat-sensitive medical equipment. However, the employment of formaldehyde in such cases requires great care. Because of the nature of the chemical, formaldehyde testing is essential whenever it is used.
Where Do You Find Formaldehyde?
The substance, also known as methylene oxide, oxomethane, and methylaldehyde, appears in various applications in the real world. These include:
* Metal plating baths
* Textile treatments commonly rugs and carpets, often furniture upholstery
* Furniture – wooden treatments can include glue or paints
* Preservatives of biological specimens
* Disinfectants used for medical equipment
While a commonly available, commercial formaldehyde at room temperature is a gas with a distinctive and strong odor. It is closely regulated to protect the health of those who come into contact with it.
The Problem with Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is antiseptic. It also has excellent sterilizing qualities. However, these sterling characteristics are offset by other less desirable qualities. Research indicates that formaldehyde is:
* A mutagen
* Potential human carcinogen
* Causes chromosomal damage
Laboratory testing on rats clearly demonstrate that any long-term exposure to the substance is associated with certain types of cancers. Studies also indicate that people who work in the industries where formaldehyde is present seem to be highly susceptible to certain kinds of cancer. Such results are one of the reasons why the levels of formaldehyde are clearly listed and closely regulated. For while the impact of the substance may vary according to the sensitivity of individuals, the overall potential for serious health risks from exposure does indicate the absolute essential need for formaldehyde testing – particularly when it comes to medical equipment.
Medical Equipment and Formaldehyde Testing
When it comes to ensuring medical equipment is clean, as was noted above, some methods employ formaldehyde as part of a cleaning and/or sterilization process. One of the more common apparatus or piece of medical equipment that can contain residual levels of formaldehyde is dialysis equipment. Used as a germicide, it controls the bacteria contamination in both the water distributions systems in the pathways taken by the dialysis fluid in the dialyzers. Medical professionals may also use the chemical to disinfect other components of the dialysis machine.
It becomes essential to prevent further complications to dialysis patients as well as prevent unnecessary exposure to potential medical issues to those who operate the equipment. It may be crucial to use formaldehyde to ensure the equipment is clean and even sterile; however, it is also important to maintain the levels of formaldehyde at the designated and required levels. To guarantee this is accomplished, medical employees and other professionals employ formaldehyde testing.