New homes in Los Altos tend to have elevated formaldehyde. Exposure to formaldehyde causes asthma, bronchitis, sinus infections, headaches, and sleep disorders.
Late 2007, the City of Los Altos passed an ordinance requiring new homes to be GreenPoint Rated. A program designed to conserve energy and resources, GreenPoint Rated homes are often designed with inadequate ventilation.
A large study funded by the State found that homes need about 1 air change per hour (ACH) to dilute formaldehyde to safe levels. Many GreenPoint Rated homes have less than 0.2 ACH. New regulations taking effect in January 2010 will only require 0.3 ACH.
Independent research in Bay Area communities found that GreenPoint Rated homes often have formaldehyde concentrations that can cause illness. Formaldehyde exceeding 80 ppb is common in GreenPoint Rated homes. Children are affected by as little as 30 ppb.
Phase I of the research project focused on formaldehyde in unoccupied homes. The goal was to identify characteristics of buildings that lead to increased formaldehyde.
Phase II will identify homes where formaldehyde has caused illness. Sources of formaldehyde will be identified, so that homeowners can remove the materials that are making them ill.
Formaldehyde measurements will be provided free of charge. Participants will share relevant medical history with a toxicologist. Names and addresses will be confidential.
Requirements for participation:
- Live in a Los Altos home built in 2009 (permit issued after January 2008)
- Keep windows closed most of the time
- Have a family member with chronic respiratory symptoms
- Share medical history with a toxicologist
Priority will be given to families with young children. Contact Linda Kincaid at NanoSafety@gmail.com. Include “Formaldehyde Study” in the subject line.
Photo by Linda Kincaid.
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Comments
I think it is important to note that the relevant committee of the San Jose City Council has rejected Ms. Kincaid's recommendations regarding formaldehyde testing in GreenPoint rated homes. The committee that was dealing with the issue voted unanimously to accept the Staff Report and Recommendation to simply move forward with the continued implementation of the Build It Green program with no requirement for testing and monitoring of formaldehyde in new residential construction.
I'd believe the scientist before a politician. Would also seem that anyone with a name like "Formaldehyde Council" might have a vested interest in continued use of formaldehyde.
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