Formaldehyde is a nearly colorless, highly irritating gas with a sharp odor. Formaldehyde is used in the manufacture of plastics, urea-formaldehyde foam insulation, and resins used to make construction materials, paper, carpets, textiles, paint, and furniture. Most people will notice the pungent odor and experience irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat when they breathe the gas, even at low levels for short periods. Longer exposure or higher doses can cause coughing or choking.
Severe exposure can cause death from throat swelling or from chemical bums to the lungs.
Direct skin contact with formaldehyde containing liquids, such as formalin, may cause bums. Eye exposure to concentrated gas or liquid can cause serious corneal bums. There is no antidote for formaldehyde poisoning, but its effects can be treated and most exposed persons do recover fully. After a single, small exposure, no delayed or long term effects are likely to occur. After a severe exposure, symptoms may be delayed up to 18 hours.