Scientific Certification Systems is Accredited Under New Formaldehyde Measure

Formaldehyde, a carcinogenic substance, was labeled a toxic air contaminant by the state of California in 1992.

by Mairi Beautyman -- Interior Design, 8/26/2008

Scientific Certification Systems (SCS) has a new accreditation under its belt: The third-party certifier is the first California-based certification body to earn accreditation under the California Air Resources Board's new Airborne Toxic Control Measure (ACTM 93120).

Conceived to limit formaldehyde emissions from composite wood materials and products, ACTM 93120 can currently be accredited by only ten certification bodies worldwide. Formaldehyde was labeled a toxic air contaminant (TAC) by the state of California in 1992. The carcinogenic substance -- often used in the adhesive of composite wood materials and products -- has been shown to increase risk of nasopharyngeal cancer, asthma, breathing difficulty, nausea, and eye, nose, and throat irritation.

Products effected by the new California measure include hardwood plywood, particleboard, medium density fiberboard, thin medium density fiberboard, furniture, and other finished products. Manufacturers in both the private and public sector selling into the state must demonstrate compliance with phase one of the new regulations by January 2009. Those with hardwood plywood materials with composite cores have until July 2009.

"The strict measures adopted by the state of California demand exceedingly rigorous third-party verification procedures," says Dr. Robert Hrubes, SCS senior vice president. "SCS is fully prepared to meet this challenge, to ensure that companies are fully compliant with the state's requirements."