Investigation of Formaldehyde Concentration in the Air of an Anatomy Hall and Its Relationship with Environmental Factors

Introduction and purpose: Formaldehyde is used as a disinfectant and preservative for preserving the mummy’s body. The compound is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer in the Human Cancer Group. This study aimed to investigate the rate of exposure to formaldehyde vapors in an anatomy hall and its relationship with environmental factors. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in the spring and summer of 2019 in the anatomy hall of Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Method 3500 was used for sampling and analysis of samples. In total, 36 air samples were collected by an Impinger at a height of 1.5 meter from the surface and analyzed by a spectrophotometer at 580 nm. During sampling, environmental factors affecting air pollutants were recorded. Results: The results showed that the minimum, mean, and maximum formaldehyde concentrations were 0.0039, 0.229±0.233, and 1.0918, respectively, per million parts of air. The mean concentration of formaldehyde was more than the Recommended Exposure Limit (P=0.001); however, it was less than the Occupational Exposure Limit. There was also a significant difference between the mean concentration at stations near and far from the body (P=0.001). There was no significant relationship between environmental factors (i.e., temperature, humidity, and airflow rate) in the environment and the number of input currents with formaldehyde concentration. Conclusion: The concentration of formaldehyde vapors in the air of the anatomy hall may exceed certain limits. Moreover, employees, students, and teachers are constantly in contact with high concentrations of formaldehyde. Accordingly, it is more likely to develop complications. Therefore, it is recommended to perform technical, engineering, and management control measures to reduce the concentration of formaldehyde vapors in the air of the anatomy hall.