Formaldehyde Standard (29 CFR 1910.1048)

FORMALDEHYDE STANDARD - 29 CFR 1910.1048
1910.1048(a)
Scope and application. This standard applies to all occupational exposures to
formaldehyde, i.e. from formaldehyde gas, its solutions, and materials that
release formaldehyde.
1910.1048(b)
Definitions. For purposes of this standard, the following definitions shall apply:
"Action level" means a concentration of 0.5 part formaldehyde per million parts
of air (0.5 ppm) calculated as an eight (8)-hour time-weighted average (TWA)
concentration.
"Assistant Secretary" means the Assistant Secretary of Labor for the
Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, or
designee.
"Authorized Person" means any person required by work duties to be present in
regulated areas, or authorized to do so by the employer, by this section, or by
the OSH Act of 1970.
"Director" means the Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or designee.
"Emergency" is any occurrence, such as but not limited to equipment failure,
rupture of containers, or failure of control equipment that results in an
uncontrolled release of a significant amount of formaldehyde.
"Employee exposure" means the exposure to airborne formaldehyde which would
occur without corrections for protection provided by any respirator that is in use.
"Formaldehyde" means the chemical substance, HCHO, Chemical Abstracts
Service Registry No. 50-00-0.
1910.1048(c)
Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) 1910.1048(c)(1)

TWA: The employer shall assure that no employee is exposed to an airborne
concentration of formaldehyde which exceeds 0.75 parts formaldehyde per
million parts of air (0.75 ppm) as an 8-hour TWA.
1910.1048(c)(2)
Short Term Exposure Limit (STEL): The employer shall assure that no employee
is exposed to an airborne concentration of formaldehyde which exceeds two
parts formaldehyde per million parts of air (2 ppm) as a 15-minute STEL.
1910.1048(d)
Exposure monitoring 1910.1048(d)(1)
General.
1910.1048(d)(1)(i)
Each employer who has a workplace covered by this standard shall monitor
employees to determine their exposure to formaldehyde.
1910.1048(d)(1)(ii)
Exception. Where the employer documents, using objective data, that the
presence of formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing products in the workplace
cannot result in airborne concentrations of formaldehyde that would cause any
employee to be exposed at or above the action level or the STEL under
foreseeable conditions of use, the employer will not be required to measure
employee exposure to formaldehyde.
1910.1048(d)(1)(iii)
When an employee's exposure is determined from representative sampling, the
measurements used shall be representative of the employee's full shift or shortterm exposure to formaldehyde, as appropriate.
1910.1048(d)(1)(iv)
Representative samples for each job classification in each work area shall be
taken for each shift unless the employer can document with objective data that
exposure levels for a given job classification are equivalent for different work
shifts.

1910.1048(d)(2)
Initial monitoring. The employer shall identify all employees who may be
exposed at or above the action level or at or above the STEL and accurately
determine the exposure of each employee so identified.
1910.1048(d)(2)(i)
Unless the employer chooses to measure the exposure of each employee
potentially exposed to formaldehyde, the employer shall develop a representative
sampling strategy and measure sufficient exposures within each job classification
for each workshift to correctly characterize and not underestimate the exposure
of any employee within each exposure group.
1910.1048(d)(2)(ii)
The initial monitoring process shall be repeated each time there is a change in
production, equipment, process, personnel, or control measures which may
result in new or additional exposure to formaldehyde.
1910.1048(d)(2)(iii)
If the employer receives reports of signs or symptoms of respiratory or dermal
conditions associated with formaldehyde exposure, the employer shall promptly
monitor the affected employee's exposure.
1910.1048(d)(3)
Periodic monitoring.
1910.1048(d)(3)(i)
The employer shall periodically measure and accurately determine exposure to
formaldehyde for employees shown by the initial monitoring to be exposed at or
above the action level or at or above the STEL.
1910.1048(d)(3)(ii)
If the last monitoring results reveal employee exposure at or above the action
level, the employer shall repeat monitoring of the employees at least every 6
months.
1910.1048(d)(3)(iii)

If the last monitoring results reveal employee exposure at or above the STEL,
the employer shall repeat monitoring of the employees at least once a year
under worst conditions.
1910.1048(d)(4)
Termination of monitoring. The employer may discontinue periodic monitoring
for employees if results from two consecutive sampling periods taken at least 7
days apart show that employee exposure is below the action level and the STEL.
The results must be statistically representative and consistent with the
employer's knowledge of the job and work operation.
1910.1048(d)(5)
Accuracy of monitoring. Monitoring shall be accurate, at the 95 percent
confidence level, to within plus or minus 25 percent for airborne concentrations
of formaldehyde at the TWA and the STEL and to within plus or minus 35
percent for airborne concentrations of formaldehyde at the action level.
1910.1048(d)(6)

Employee notification of monitoring results. The employer must, within 15

working days after the receipt of the results of any monitoring performed under
this section, notify each affected employee of these results either individually in
writing or by posting the results in an appropriate location that is accessible to
employees. If employee exposure is above the PEL, affected employees shall be
provided with a description of the corrective actions being taken by the employer
to decrease exposure.
1910.1048(d)(7)
Observation of monitoring.
1910.1048(d)(7)(i)
The employer shall provide affected employees or their designated
representatives an opportunity to observe any monitoring of employee exposure
to formaldehyde required by this standard.
1910.1048(d)(7)(ii)
When observation of the monitoring of employee exposure to formaldehyde
requires entry into an area where the use of protective clothing or equipment is
required, the employer shall provide the clothing and equipment to the observer,

require the observer to use such clothing and equipment, and assure that the
observer complies with all other applicable safety and health procedures.
1910.1048(e)
Regulated areas.
1910.1048(e)(1)
The employer shall establish regulated areas where the concentration of airborne
formaldehyde exceeds either the TWA or the STEL and post all entrances and
accessways with signs bearing the following information:
DANGER
FORMALDEHYDE
IRRITANT AND POTENTIAL CANCER HAZARD
AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL ONLY
1910.1048(e)(2)
The employer shall limit access to regulated areas to authorized persons who
have been trained to recognize the hazards of formaldehyde.
1910.1048(e)(3)
An employer at a multiemployer worksite who establishes a regulated area shall
communicate the access restrictions and locations of these areas to other
employers with work operations at that worksite.
1910.1048(f)
Methods of compliance 1910.1048(f)(1)
Engineering controls and work practices. The employer shall institute engineering
and work practice controls to reduce and maintain employee exposures to
formaldehyde at or below the TWA and the STEL.
1910.1048(f)(2)
Exception. Whenever the employer has established that feasible engineering and
work practice controls cannot reduce employee exposure to or below either of
the PELs, the employer shall apply these controls to reduce employee exposures

to the extent feasible and shall supplement them with respirators which satisfy
this standard.
1910.1048(g)

Respiratory protection.
1910.1048(g)(1)

General. For employees who use respirators required by this section, the

employer must provide each employee an appropriate respirator that complies
with the requirements of this paragraph. Respirators must be used during:
1910.1048(g)(1)(i)
Periods necessary to install or implement feasible engineering and work-practice
controls.
1910.1048(g)(1)(ii)
Work operations, such as maintenance and repair activities or vessel cleaning,
for which the employer establishes that engineering and work-practice controls
are not feasible.
1910.1048(g)(1)(iii)
Work operations for which feasible engineering and work- practice controls are
not yet sufficient to reduce employee exposure to or below the PELs.
1910.1048(g)(1)(iv)
Emergencies.
1910.1048(g)(2)

Respirator program.
1910.1048(g)(2)(i)
The employer must implement a respiratory protection program in accordance
with § 1910.134(b) through (d) (except (d)(1)(iii), (d)(3)(iii)(b)(1), and (2)), and
(f) through (m), which covers each employee required by this section to use a
respirator.
1910.1048(g)(2)(ii)

When employees use air-purifying respirators with chemical cartridges or
canisters that do not contain end-of-service-life indicators approved by the
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, employers must replace
these cartridges or canisters as specified by paragraphs (d)(3)(iii)(B)(1) and
(B)(2) of 29 CFR 1910.134, or at the end of the workshift, whichever condition
occurs first.
1910.1048(g)(2)(ii)(A)
Replace the cartridge after three (3) hours of use or at the end of the workshift,
whichever occurs first, unless the cartridge contains a NIOSH-approved end-ofservice-life indicator (ESLI) to show when breakthrough occurs.
1910.1048(g)(2)(ii)(B)
Unless the canister contains a NIOSH-approved ESLI to show when breakthrough
occurs, replace canisters used in atmospheres up to 7.5 ppm (10xPEL) every four
(4) hours and industrial-sized canisters used in atmospheres up to 75 ppm
(100xPEL) every two (2) hours, or at the end of the workshift, whichever occurs
first.
1910.1048(g)(3)

Respirator selection.
1910.1048(g)(3)(i)
Employers must:
1910.1048(g)(3)(i)(A)
Select, and provide to employees, the appropriate respirators specified in
paragraph (d)(3)(i)(A) of 29 CFR 1910.134.
1910.1048(g)(3)(i)(B)
Equip each air-purifying, full facepiece respirator with a canister or cartridge
approved for protection against formaldehyde.
1910.1048(g)(3)(i)(C)
For escape, provide employees with one of the following respirator options: A
self-contained breathing apparatus operated in the demand or pressure-demand
mode; or a full facepiece respirator having a chin-style, or a front-or back-

mounted industrial-size, canister or cartridge approved for protection against
formaldehyde.
1910.1048(g)(3)(ii)
Employers may substitute an air-purifying, half mask respirator for an airpurifying, full facepiece respirator when they equip the half mask respirator with
a cartridge approved for protection against formaldehyde and provide the
affected employee with effective gas-proof goggles.
1910.1048(g)(3)(iii)
Employers must provide employees who have difficulty using negative pressure
respirators with powered air-purifying respirators permitted for use under
paragraph (g)(3)(i)(A) of this standard and that affords adequate protection
against formaldehyde exposures.
1910.1048(h)
Protective equipment and clothing. Employers shall comply with the provisions of
29 CFR 1910.132 and 29 CFR 1910.133. When protective equipment or clothing
is provided under these provisions, the employer shall provide these protective
devices at no cost to the employee and assure that the employee wears them.
1910.1048(h)(1)
Selection. The employer shall select protective clothing and equipment based
upon the form of formaldehyde to be encountered, the conditions of use, and
the hazard to be prevented.
1910.1048(h)(1)(i)
All contact of the eyes and skin with liquids containing 1 percent or more
formaldehyde shall be prevented by the use of chemical protective clothing made
of material impervious to formaldehyde and the use of other personal protective
equipment, such as goggles and face shields, as appropriate to the operation.
1910.1048(h)(1)(ii)
Contact with irritating or sensitizing materials shall be prevented to the extent
necessary to eliminate the hazard.
1910.1048(h)(1)(iii)

Where a face shield is worn, chemical safety goggles are also required if there is
a danger of formaldehyde reaching the area of the eye.
1910.1048(h)(1)(iv)
Full body protection shall be worn for entry into areas where concentrations
exceed 100 ppm and for emergency reentry into areas of unknown
concentration.
1910.1048(h)(2)
Maintenance of protective equipment and clothing.
1910.1048(h)(2)(i)
The employer shall assure that protective equipment and clothing that has
become contaminated with formaldehyde is cleaned or laundered before its
reuse.
1910.1048(h)(2)(ii)
When ventilating formaldehyde-contaminated clothing and equipment, the
employer shall establish a storage area so that employee exposure is minimized.
Containers for contaminated clothing and equipment and storage areas shall
have labels and signs containing the following information:
DANGER
FORMALDEHYDE-CONTAMINATED [CLOTHING] EQUIPMENT
AVOID INHALATION AND SKIN CONTACT
1910.1048(h)(2)(iii)
The employer shall assure that only persons trained to recognize the hazards of
formaldehyde remove the contaminated material from the storage area for
purposes of cleaning, laundering, or disposal.
1910.1048(h)(2)(iv)
The employer shall assure that no employee takes home equipment or clothing
that is contaminated with formaldehyde.
1910.1048(h)(2)(v)
The employer shall repair or replace all required protective clothing and
equipment for each affected employee as necessary to assure its effectiveness.

1910.1048(h)(2)(vi)
The employer shall inform any person who launders, cleans, or repairs such
clothing or equipment of formaldehyde's potentially harmful effects and of
procedures to safely handle the clothing and equipment.
1910.1048(i)
Hygiene protection.
1910.1048(i)(1)
The employer shall provide change rooms, as described in 29 CFR 1910.141 for
employees who are required to change from work clothing into protective
clothing to prevent skin contact with formaldehyde.
1910.1048(i)(2)
If employees' skin may become splashed with solutions containing 1 percent or
greater formaldehyde, for example, because of equipment failure or improper
work practices, the employer shall provide conveniently located quick drench
showers and assure that affected employees use these facilities immediately.
1910.1048(i)(3)
If there is any possibility that an employee's eyes may be splashed with solutions
containing 0.1 percent or greater formaldehyde, the employer shall provide
acceptable eyewash facilities within the immediate work area for emergency use.
1910.1048(j)
Housekeeping. For operations involving formaldehyde liquids or gas, the
employer shall conduct a program to detect leaks and spills, including regular
visual inspections.
1910.1048(j)(1)
Preventative maintenance of equipment, including surveys for leaks, shall be
undertaken at regular intervals.
1910.1048(j)(2)
In work areas where spillage may occur, the employer shall make provisions to
contain the spill, to decontaminate the work area, and to dispose of the waste.

1910.1048(j)(3)
The employer shall assure that all leaks are repaired and spills are cleaned
promptly by employees wearing suitable protective equipment and trained in
proper methods for cleanup and decontamination.
1910.1048(j)(4)
Formaldehyde-contaminated waste and debris resulting from leaks or spills shall
be placed for disposal in sealed containers bearing a label warning of
formaldehyde's presence and of the hazards associated with formaldehyde.
1910.1048(k)
Emergencies. For each workplace where there is the possibility of an emergency
involving formaldehyde, the employer shall assure appropriate procedures are
adopted to minimize injury and loss of life. Appropriate procedures shall be
implemented in the event of an emergency.
1910.1048(l)
Medical surveillance 1910.1048(l)(1)
Employees covered.
1910.1048(l)(1)(i)
The employer shall institute medical surveillance programs for all employees
exposed to formaldehyde at concentrations at or exceeding the action level or
exceeding the STEL.
1910.1048(l)(1)(ii)
The employer shall make medical surveillance available for employees who
develop signs and symptoms of overexposure to formaldehyde and for all
employees exposed to formaldehyde in emergencies. When determining whether
an employee may be experiencing signs and symptoms of possible overexposure
to formaldehyde, the employer may rely on the evidence that signs and
symptoms associated with formaldehyde exposure will occur only in exceptional
circumstances when airborne exposure is less than 0.1 ppm and when
formaldehyde is present in material in concentrations less than 0.1 percent.
1910.1048(l)(2)

Examination by a physician. All medical procedures, including administration of
medical disease questionnaires, shall be performed by or under the supervision
of a licensed physician and shall be provided without cost to the employee,
without loss of pay, and at a reasonable time and place.
1910.1048(l)(3)
Medical disease questionnaire. The employer shall make the following medical
surveillance available to employees prior to assignment to a job where
formaldehyde exposure is at or above the action level or above the STEL and
annually thereafter. The employer shall also make the following medical
surveillance available promptly upon determining that an employee is
experiencing signs and symptoms indicative of possible overexposure to
formaldehyde.
1910.1048(l)(3)(i)
Administration of a medical disease questionnaire, such as in Appendix D, which
is designed to elicit information on work history, smoking history, any evidence
of eye, nose, or throat irritation; chronic airway problems or hyperreactive airway
disease: allergic skin conditions or dermatitis; and upper or lower respiratory
problems.
1910.1048(l)(3)(ii)
A determination by the physician, based on evaluation of the medical disease
questionnaire, of whether a medical examination is necessary for employees not
required to wear respirators to reduce exposure to formaldehyde.
1910.1048(l)(4)
Medical examinations. Medical examinations shall be given to any employee who
the physician feels, based on information in the medical disease questionnaire,
may be at increased risk from exposure to formaldehyde and at the time of initial
assignment and at least annually thereafter to all employees required to wear a
respirator to reduce exposure to formaldehyde. The medical examination shall
include:
1910.1048(l)(4)(i)
A physical examination with emphasis on evidence of irritation or sensitization of
the skin and respiratory system, shortness of breath, or irritation of the eyes.
1910.1048(l)(4)(ii)

Laboratory examinations for respirator wearers consisting of baseline and annual
pulmonary function tests. As a minimum, these tests shall consist of forced vital
capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV(1)), and forced
expiratory flow (FEF).
1910.1048(l)(4)(iii)
Any other test which the examining physician deems necessary to complete the
written opinion.
1910.1048(l)(4)(iv)
Counseling of employees having medical conditions that would be directly or
indirectly aggravated by exposure to formaldehyde on the increased risk of
impairment of their health.
1910.1048(l)(5)
Examinations for employees exposed in an emergency. The employer shall make
medical examinations available as soon as possible to all employees who have
been exposed to formaldehyde in an emergency.
1910.1048(l)(5)(i)
The examination shall include a medical and work history with emphasis on any
evidence of upper or lower respiratory problems, allergic conditions, skin reaction
or hypersensitivity, and any evidence of eye, nose, or throat irritation.
1910.1048(l)(5)(ii)
Other examinations shall consist of those elements considered appropriate by the
examining physician.
1910.1048(l)(6)
Information provided to the physician. The employer shall provide the following
information to the examining physician:
1910.1048(l)(6)(i)
A copy of this standard and Appendix A, C, D, and E;
1910.1048(l)(6)(ii)

A description of the affected employee's job duties as they relate to the
employee's exposure to formaldehyde;
1910.1048(l)(6)(iii)
The representative exposure level for the employee's job assignment;
1910.1048(l)(6)(iv)
Information concerning any personal protective equipment and respiratory
protection used or to be used by the employee; and
1910.1048(l)(6)(v)
Information from previous medical examinations of the affected employee within
the control of the employer.
1910.1048(l)(6)(vi)
In the event of a nonroutine examination because of an emergency, the
employer shall provide to the physician as soon as possible: a description of how
the emergency occurred and the exposure the victim may have received.
1910.1048(l)(7)
Physician's written opinion.
1910.1048(l)(7)(i)
For each examination required under this standard, the employer shall obtain a
written opinion from the examining physician. This written opinion shall contain
the results of the medical examination except that it shall not reveal specific
findings or diagnoses unrelated to occupational exposure to formaldehyde. The
written opinion shall include:
1910.1048(l)(7)(i)(A)
The physician's opinion as to whether the employee has any medical condition
that would place the employee at an increased risk of material impairment of
health from exposure to formaldehyde;
1910.1048(l)(7)(i)(B)
Any recommended limitations on the employee's exposure or changes in the use
of personal protective equipment, including respirators;

1910.1048(l)(7)(i)(C)
A statement that the employee has been informed by the physician of any
medical conditions which would be aggravated by exposure to formaldehyde,
whether these conditions may have resulted from past formaldehyde exposure or
from exposure in an emergency, and whether there is a need for further
examination or treatment.
1910.1048(l)(7)(ii)
The employer shall provide for retention of the results of the medical
examination and tests conducted by the physician.
1910.1048(l)(7)(iii)
The employer shall provide a copy of the physician's written opinion to the
affected employee within 15 days of its receipt.
1910.1048(l)(8)
Medical removal.
1910.1048(l)(8)(i)
The provisions of paragraph (l)(8) apply when an employee reports significant
irritation of the mucosa of the eyes or of the upper airways, respiratory
sensitization, dermal irritation, or dermal sensitization attributed to workplace
formaldehyde exposure. Medical removal provisions do not apply in the case of
dermal irritation or dermal sensitization when the product suspected of causing
the dermal condition contains less than 0.05 percent formaldehyde.
1910.1048(l)(8)(ii)
An employee's report of signs or symptoms of possible overexposure to
formaldehyde shall be evaluated by a physician selected by the employer
pursuant to paragraph (l)(3). If the physician determines that a medical
examination is not necessary under paragraph (l)(3)(ii), there shall be a twoweek evaluation and remediation period to permit the employer to ascertain
whether the signs or symptoms subside untreated or with the use of creams,
gloves, first aid treatment or personal protective equipment. Industrial hygiene
measures that limit the employee's exposure to formaldehyde may also be
implemented during this period. The employee shall be referred immediately to a
physician prior to expiration of the two-week period if the signs or symptoms
worsen. Earnings, seniority and benefits may not be altered during the two-week
period by virtue of the report.

1910.1048(l)(8)(iii)
If the signs or symptoms have not subsided or been remedied by the end of the
two-week period, or earlier if signs or symptoms warrant, the employee shall be
examined by a physician selected by the employer. The physician shall presume,
absent contrary evidence, that observed dermal irritation or dermal sensitization
are not attributable to formaldehyde when products to which the affected
employee is exposed contain less than 0.1 percent formaldehyde.
1910.1048(l)(8)(iv)
Medical examinations shall be conducted in compliance with the requirements of
paragraph (l)(5)(i) and (ii). Additional guidelines for conducting medical exams
are contained in Appendix C.
1910.1048(l)(8)(v)
If the physician finds that significant irritation of the mucosa of the eyes or of the
upper airways, respiratory sensitization, dermal irritation, or dermal sensitization
result from workplace formaldehyde exposure and recommends restrictions or
removal, the employer shall promptly comply with the restrictions or
recommendation of removal. In the event of a recommendation of removal, the
employer shall remove the affected employee from the current formaldehyde
exposure and if possible, transfer the employee to work having no or significantly
less exposure to formaldehyde.
1910.1048(l)(8)(vi)
When an employee is removed pursuant to paragraph (l)(8)(v), the employer
shall transfer the employee to comparable work for which the employee is
qualified or can be trained in a short period (up to 6 months), where the
formaldehyde exposures are as low as possible, but not higher than the action
level. The employer shall maintain the employee's current earnings, seniority,
and other benefits. If there is no such work available, the employer shall
maintain the employee's current earnings, seniority and other benefits until such
work becomes available, until the employee is determined to be unable to return
to workplace formaldehyde exposure, until the employee is determined to be
able to return to the original job status, or for six months, whichever comes first.
1910.1048(l)(8)(vii)
The employer shall arrange for a follow-up medical examination to take place
within six months after the employee is removed pursuant to this paragraph.
This examination shall determine if the employee can return to the original job
status, or if the removal is to be permanent. The physician shall make a decision

within six months of the date the employee was removed as to whether the
employee can be returned to the original job status, or if the removal is to be
permanent.
1910.1048(l)(8)(viii)
An employer's obligation to provide earnings, seniority and other benefits to a
removed employee may be reduced to the extent that the employee receives
compensation for earnings lost during the period of removal either from a
publicly or employer-funded compensation program or from employment with
another employer made possible by virtue of the employee's removal.
1910.1048(l)(8)(ix)
In making determinations of the formaldehyde content of materials under this
paragraph the employer may rely on objective data.
1910.1048(l)(9)
Multiple physician review.
1910.1048(l)(9)(i)
After the employer selects the initial physician who conducts any medical
examination or consultation to determine whether medical removal or restriction
is appropriate, the employee may designate a second physician to review any
findings, determinations or recommendations of the initial physician and to
conduct such examinations, consultations,and laboratory tests as the second
physician deems necessary and appropriate to evaluate the effects of
formaldehyde exposure and to facilitate this review.
1910.1048(l)(9)(ii)
The employer shall promptly notify an employee of the right to seek a second
medical opinion after each occasion that an initial physician conducts a medical
examination or consultation for the purpose of medical removal or restriction.
1910.1048(l)(9)(iii)
The employer may condition its participation in, and payment for, the multiple
physician review mechanism upon the employee doing the following within
fifteen (15) days after receipt of the notification of the right to seek a second
medical opinion, or receipt of the initial physician's written opinion, whichever is
later;

1910.1048(l)(9)(iii)(A)
The employee informs the employer of the intention to seek a second medical
opinion, and
1910.1048(l)(9)(iii)(B)
The employee initiates steps to make an appointment with a second physician.
1910.1048(l)(9)(iv)
If the findings, determinations or recommendations of the second physician
differ from those of the initial physician, then the employer and the employee
shall assure that efforts are made for the two physicians to resolve the
disagreement. If the two physicians are unable to quickly resolve their
disagreement, then the employer and the employee through their respective
physicians shall designate a third physician who shall be a specialist in the field
at issue:
1910.1048(l)(9)(iv)(A)
To review the findings, determinations or recommendations of the prior
physicians; and
1910.1048(l)(9)(iv)(B)
To conduct such examinations, consultations, laboratory tests and discussions
with the prior physicians as the third physician deems necessary to resolve the
disagreement of the prior physicians.
1910.1048(l)(9)(v)
In the alternative, the employer and the employee or authorized employee
representative may jointly designate such third physician.
1910.1048(l)(9)(vi)
The employer shall act consistent with the findings, determinations and
recommendations of the third physician, unless the employer and the employee
reach an agreement which is otherwise consistent with the recommendations of
at least one of the three physicians.
1910.1048(m)
Hazard communication -

1910.1048(m)(1)
General. Communication of the hazards associated with formaldehyde in the
workplace shall be governed by the requirements of paragraph (m). The
definitions of 29 CFR 1910.1200 (c) shall apply under this paragraph.
1910.1048(m)(1)(i)
The following shall be subject to the hazard communication requirements of this
paragraph: formaldehyde gas, all mixtures or solutions composed of greater than
0.1 percent formaldehyde, and materials capable of releasing formaldehyde into
the air, under reasonably foreseeable conditions of use, at concentrations
reaching or exceeding 0.1 ppm.
1910.1048(m)(1)(ii)
As a minimum, specific health hazards that the employer shall address are:
cancer, irritation and sensitization of the skin and respiratory system, eye and
throat irritation, and acute toxicity.
1910.1048(m)(2)
Manufacturers and importers who produce or import formaldehyde or
formaldehyde-containing products shall provide downstream employers using or
handling these products with an objective determination through the required
labels and MSDSs if these items may constitute a health hazard within the
meaning of 29 CFR 1910.1200(d) under normal conditions of use.
1910.1048(m)(3)
Labels.
1910.1048(m)(3)(i)
The employer shall assure that hazard warning labels complying with the
requirements of 29 CFR 1910.1200(f) are affixed to all containers of materials
listed in paragraph (m)(1)(i), except to the extent that 29 CFR 1910.1200(f) is
inconsistent with this paragraph.
1910.1048(m)(3)(ii)
Information on labels. As a minimum, for all materials listed in paragraph
(m)(1)(i) capable of releasing formaldehyde at levels of 0.1 ppm to 0.5 ppm,
labels shall identify that the product contains formaldehyde; list the name and
address of the responsible party; and state that physical and health hazard

information is readily available from the employer and from material safety data
sheets.
1910.1048(m)(3)(iii)
For materials listed in paragraph (m)(1)(i) capable of releasing formaldehyde at
levels above 0.5 ppm, labels shall appropriately address all hazards as defined in
29 CFR 1910.1200 (d) and 29 CFR 1910.1200 Appendices A and B, including
respiratory sensitization, and shall contain the words "Potential Cancer Hazard."
1910.1048(m)(3)(iv)
In making the determinations of anticipated levels of formaldehyde release, the
employer may rely on objective data indicating the extent of potential
formaldehyde release under reasonably foreseeable conditions of use.
1910.1048(m)(3)(v)
Substitute warning labels. The employer may use warning labels required by
other statutes, regulations, or ordinances which impart the same information as
the warning statements required by this paragraph.
1910.1048(m)(4)
Material safety data sheets.
1910.1048(m)(4)(i)
Any employer who uses formaldehyde-containing materials listed in paragraph
(m)(1)(i) shall comply with the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.1200(g) with regard
to the development and updating of material safety data sheets.
1910.1048(m)(4)(ii)
Manufacturers, importers, and distributors of formaldehyde-containing materials
listed in paragraph (m)(1)(i) shall assure that material safety data sheets and
updated information are provided to all employers purchasing such materials at
the time of the initial shipment and at the time of the first shipment after a
material safety data sheet is updated.
1910.1048(m)(5)
Written hazard communication program. The employer shall develop, implement,
and maintain at the workplace, a written hazard communication program for
formaldehyde exposures in the workplace, which at a minimum describes how

the requirements specified in this paragraph for labels and other forms of
warning and material safety data sheets, and paragraph (n) for employee
information and training, will be met. Employers in multi-employer workplaces
shall comply with the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.1200(e)(2).
1910.1048(n)
Employee information and training 1910.1048(n)(1)
Participation. The employer shall assure that all employees who are assigned to
workplaces where there is exposure to formaldehyde participate in a training
program, except that where the employer can show, using objective data, that
employees are not exposed to formaldehyde at or above 0.1 ppm, the employer
is not required to provide training.
1910.1048(n)(2)
Frequency. Employers shall provide such information and training to employees
at the time of initial assignment, and whenever a new exposure to formaldehyde
is introduced into the work area. The training shall be repeated at least annually.
1910.1048(n)(3)
Training program. The training program shall be conducted in a manner which
the employee is able to understand and shall include:
1910.1048(n)(3)(i)
A discussion of the contents of this regulation and the contents of the Material
Safety Data Sheet.
1910.1048(n)(3)(ii)
The purpose for and a description of the medical surveillance program required
by this standard, including:
1910.1048(n)(3)(ii)(A)
A description of the potential health hazards associated with exposure to
formaldehyde and a description of the signs and symptoms of exposure to
formaldehyde.
1910.1048(n)(3)(ii)(B)

Instructions to immediately report to the employer the development of any
adverse signs or symptoms that the employee suspects is attributable to
formaldehyde exposure.
1910.1048(n)(3)(iii)
Description of operations in the work area where formaldehyde is present and an
explanation of the safe work practices appropriate for limiting exposure to
formaldehyde in each job;
1910.1048(n)(3)(iv)
The purpose for, proper use of, and limitations of personal protective clothing
and equipment;
1910.1048(n)(3)(v)
Instructions for the handling of spills, emergencies, and clean-up procedures;
1910.1048(n)(3)(vi)
An explanation of the importance of engineering and work practice controls for
employee protection and any necessary instruction in the use of these controls;
and
1910.1048(n)(3)(vii)
A review of emergency procedures including the specific duties or assignments of
each employee in the event of an emergency.
1910.1048(n)(4)
Access to training materials.
1910.1048(n)(4)(i)
The employer shall inform all affected employees of the location of written
training materials and shall make these materials readily available, without cost,
to the affected employees.
1910.1048(n)(4)(ii)
The employer shall provide, upon request, all training materials relating to the
employee training program to the Assistant Secretary and the Director.

1910.1048(o)
Recordkeeping 1910.1048(o)(1)
Exposure measurements. The employer shall establish and maintain an accurate
record of all measurements taken to monitor employee exposure to
formaldehyde. This record shall include:
1910.1048(o)(1)(i)
The date of measurement;
1910.1048(o)(1)(ii)
The operation being monitored;
1910.1048(o)(1)(iii)
The methods of sampling and analysis and evidence of their accuracy and
precision;
1910.1048(o)(1)(iv)
The number, durations, time, and results of samples taken;
1910.1048(o)(1)(v)
The types of protective devices worn; and
1910.1048(o)(1)(vi)
The names, job classifications, social security numbers, and exposure estimates
of the employees whose exposures are represented by the actual monitoring
results.
1910.1048(o)(2)
Exposure determinations. Where the employer has determined that no
monitoring is required under this standard, the employer shall maintain a record
of the objective data relied upon to support the determination that no employee
is exposed to formaldehyde at or above the action level.
1910.1048(o)(3)

Medical surveillance. The employer shall establish and maintain an accurate
record for each employee subject to medical surveillance under this standard.
This record shall include:
1910.1048(o)(3)(i)
The name and social security number of the employee;
1910.1048(o)(3)(ii)
The physician's written opinion;
1910.1048(o)(3)(iii)
A list of any employee health complaints that may be related to exposure to
formaldehyde; and
1910.1048(o)(3)(iv)
A copy of the medical examination results, including medical disease
questionnaires and results of any medical tests required by the standard or
mandated by the examining physician.
1910.1048(o)(4)
Respirator fit testing.
1910.1048(o)(4)(i)
The employer shall establish and maintain accurate records for employees
subject to negative pressure respirator fit testing required by this standard.
1910.1048(o)(4)(ii)
This record shall include:
1910.1048(o)(4)(ii)(A)
A copy of the protocol selected for respirator fit testing.
1910.1048(o)(4)(ii)(B)
A copy of the results of any fit testing performed.
1910.1048(o)(4)(ii)(C)

The size and manufacturer of the types of respirators available for selection.
1910.1048(o)(4)(ii)(D)
The date of the most recent fit testing, the name and social security number of
each tested employee, and the respirator type and facepiece selected.
1910.1048(o)(5)
Record retention. The employer shall retain records required by this standard for
at least the following periods:
1910.1048(o)(5)(i)
Exposure records and determinations shall be kept for at least 30 years.
1910.1048(o)(5)(ii)
Medical records shall be kept for the duration of employment plus 30 years.
1910.1048(o)(5)(iii)
Respirator fit testing records shall be kept until replaced by a more recent
record.
1910.1048(o)(6)
Availability of records.
1910.1048(o)(6)(i)
Upon request, the employer shall make all records maintained as a requirement
of this standard available for examination and copying to the Assistant Secretary
and the Director.
1910.1048(o)(6)(ii)
The employer shall make employee exposure records, including estimates made
from representative monitoring and available upon request for examination, and
copying to the subject employee, or former employee, and employee
representatives in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1020 (a)-(e) and (g)-(i).
1910.1048(o)(6)(iii)

Employee medical records required by this standard shall be provided upon
request for examination and copying, to the subject employee or former
employee or to anyone having the specific written consent of the subject
employee or former employee in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1020 (a)-(e) and
(g)-(i).
[56 FR 10378, Mar. 12, 1991; 56 FR 26909, June 12, 1991; 56 FR 37651, Aug. 8,
1991; 56 FR 57593, Nov. 13, 1991; 57 FR 2682, Jan. 23, 1992; 57 FR 19262,
May 5, 1992; 57 FR 22290, May 27, 1992; 61 FR 5507, Feb. 13, 1996; 63 FR
1152, Jan. 8, 1998; 63 FR 20098, April 23, 1998; 70 FR 1143, Jan. 5, 2005; 71
FR 16672 and 16673, April 3, 2006; 71 FR 50190, August 24, 2006; 73 FR
75586, Dec. 12, 2008]