Which substances does the OSHA formaldehyde rule apply to?

The OSHA formaldehyde rule specifically targets formaldehyde and substances that release formaldehyde in the workplace environment. Formaldehyde, often abbreviated as HCHO, is a colorless gas that is commonly used in various applications, including embalming. Paraformaldehyde is a polymerized form of formaldehyde that can release formaldehyde gas when heated or dissolved, thereby also falling under the OSHA regulation.

The regulation is designed to protect workers from the potential health hazards associated with exposure to formaldehyde, which can include respiratory issues, skin irritation, and more serious long-term effects. By focusing on formaldehyde and paraformaldehyde, OSHA aims to mitigate the risks that these chemicals pose to employees working in environments where exposure can occur, such as mortuaries and laboratories.

In contrast, the other options include substances that do not directly pertain to the OSHA formaldehyde standard. Methanol and ethanol are alcohols with different safety regulations, and while formalin is a solution of formaldehyde, it is the formaldehyde content itself that the OSHA rule emphasizes. Thymol is a natural monoterpene with antifungal properties and is not regulated under this formaldehyde-specific rule.