I just phoned to give formaldehyde test results to a woman in Picayune, Jerrye, who has been having severe eye problems. Her trailer tested at .11 ppm, which is over the limit. The levels were likely much higher earlier as she has been in the trailer now for 15 months. Her test badge was hung in the middle of the camper where formaldehyde levels would be expected to be less. Where she sleeps in a cubicle she is very near lots of wood products such as cabinets and the particle board underneath the platform bed. Testing by EPA showed some VERY high levels of formaldehyde with sensitive test equipment put right up against the wood products.
Jerrye said her eye doctor said a lot of people in FEMA trailers are having similar problems. When she discussed the problems with FEMA, she was told FEMA is no longer swapping out trailers for people who complain about the formaldehyde and is instead offering rental assistance. The problem is, finding rentals units is still very, very difficult.
One interesting observation: Jerrye had an apple on her counter for months that didn’t rot. She considered it very odd, but then thought: It is being preserved by the formaldehyde!
Becky
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