If there is a change in production, equipment, process, personnel, or control measures, which may result in a new or additional exposure to formaldehyde, the initial monitoring shall be repeated. As long as the method selected for sampling and analysis meets the criteria for precision and accuracy set out in the formaldehyde standard, the employer is free to choose from many methods available for monitoring exposure to formaldehyde. Among the methods available are the chromotrophic acid method which relies on use of a midget impinger, gas employee exposed between the action level and the 1 ppm TWA limit is showing signs and symptoms that may be formaldehyde-related, the employer must administer to the employee a medical disease questionnaire without delay. If the physician determines, on the basis of the medical disease questionnaire, that it is necessary to examine the employee, the employee would then be sent to the physician for further examination. In some cases, the physician will require additional information from the medical examinations before a final written opinion can be given.
Emergencies pose a very different situation from routine surveillance.
OSHA has extended the stay until the revision to the standard is final. It reemphasizes that hazard communication covers formaldehyde exposures occurring in the manufacture and use of wood products. All employees exposed to formaldehyde at concentrations at or above 0.1 ppm or to solutions containing greater than 0.1 percent or more of formaldehyde must receive initial training upon hire. All employees exposed at or above the action level or the STEL must be trained annually. A reasonable amount of time should be given the employer to permit identification of affected employees and to obtain training materials.