Call (916) 777-7777 or complete a Free Case Evaluation to discuss your possible claim.
60 Minutes and CPSC Investigate High Formaldehyde Levels
A 60 Minutes investigation, which aired in March 2015, tested 31 samples of Chinese-made Lumber Liquidators laminate flooring and found that all but one of the samples contained high levels of formaldehyde and failed to pass the stringent standards of California regulations. Through an undercover investigation, CBS discovered that three Chinese factories that manufacture Lumber Liquidators laminate flooring openly admitted that the products did not meet CARB Phase 2 requirements and that they falsely label the products to show that they are compliant. Following numerous reports of high levels of formaldehyde, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced on March 25, 2015 that it is actively investigating the Chinese-made laminate flooring used by Lumber Liquidators. The investigation could take months to complete, and, if necessary, a recall of the products may be made. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has established strict emission standards for composite wood products in an effort to reduce the public’s exposure to formaldehyde. The regulation was adopted in two phases that began in 2007. As of January 2014, only Phase 2 products are legally allowed to be sold in California. All products must state on the packaging that they are CARB Phase 2 compliant.Formaldehyde Dangers from Lumber Liquidators Laminate Flooring
According to the CPSC, formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas commonly used as a binding agent during the manufacturing of laminate flooring. While low levels are safely used in a variety of products, adverse health conditions can result from over-exposure, motivating strict restrictions on how much of the chemical can be used. Formaldehyde is classified as a cancer-causing carcinogen, and long-term exposure at high levels can cause various types of cancer, including nasopharyngeal cancer and myeloid leukemia. At lower levels, exposure to formaldehyde can cause a number of additional adverse health effects, including:- Burning, itching or stinging of the eyes, nose or throat
- Runny nose
- Difficulty breathing and chest tightness
- Asthma symptoms
- Rashes, blisters and flaky dry skin
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Mood changes such as depression or irritability
Lumber Liquidators Injury Lawyers
Call (916) 777-7777 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form.