A pragmatic approach to formalin safety in anatomical pathology

Abstract

Formaldehyde exposure is a safety concern in anatomical pathology, and it is considered a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) determined a set of regulations for formaldehyde industrial and laboratory use. There are no clinical and epidemiological data on increased morbidity or mortality from cancer among workers in the histology laboratory, where a 10% formalin or 4% formaldehyde water solution is used. Nevertheless, a certain set of monitoring and working practices is required to prevent adverse health effects. Based on the literature and personal experience, this article presents recommendations for handling adverse situations of formalin use in anatomical pathology. There is an emphasis on spills, clean up, and splashes. Regular monitoring of formaldehyde exposure, appropriate engineering controls, and the culture of professional laboratory work can help to employ formalin, the ubiquitous fixative in anatomical pathology, without harmful effects.