Reducing the levels of formaldehyde exposure in gross anatomy laboratories

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Abstract
Background: A method is described in which formaldehyde levels are greatly reduced in our gross anatomy laboratory in order to comply with increasingly severe safety and health regulations. Methods: A novel type of dissection “bed” has been introduced which incorporates an internal motor that causes a downflow of formaldehyderich vapors, which are absorbed by a replaceable active carbon filtration system. Results: Use of the new dissection “beds” has resulted in the recirculated air being virtually formaldehyde-free. Formaldehyde vapor levels in our gross anatomy laboratory have been greatly reduced and are typically in the range of 0.03–0.09 ppm. Conclusions: The new system allows us to comply with safety and health regulations and provide a dissection room with an excellent working environment.