The next asbestos: NHS staff left disabled and with severe asthma after dangerously high levels of formaldehyde exposure

Investigated: NHS staff exposed to dangerous levels of formaldehyde

An investigation led by The Independent and Channel 4 in 2025 found that staff working in NHS laboratories were exposed to dangerous levels of formaldehyde – a toxic and carcinogenic chemical that can be used as a steriliser or to preserve human issue samples.

Warnings have been issued about the harmful effects of the chemical, with many branding it as being ‘the new asbestos’ and its name and damaging potential only recently becoming widely known.

The chemical is used as a steriliser in environments such as NHS laboratories, as well as mortuaries, but it also widely used by cosmetics manufacturers, as well as by chemical companies in the manufacture of adhesives, polymer coatings and resins. Historically, it will have been in routine use in major chemical businesses like ICI.

What is formaldehyde?

Formaldehyde is a colourless but pungent gas, which is known as formalin in its liquid form. It is used in both forms in a wide range of products and processes, including the productions of resins and adhesives, and for the preservation of tissue samples in NHS and university laboratories.

Despite its widespread use, formaldehyde is a toxic substance that can cause irritation in the eyes, nose and throat which can lead to respiratory problems and dermatitis (skin allergies). In severe cases, it has also been linked to cancerous nasal tumours and leukaemia.

The effect of formaldehyde exposure

Formaldehyde can be inhaled, ingested or absorbed through the skin – and while some health concerns can arise quickly, more serious damage to a person’s health can sometimes take many years to become obvious.

Formaldehyde has been widely used in industries for decades and remains in use in many environments – despite the significant and disabling health concerns that are now known about. Early symptoms include respiratory issues, headaches and cognitive problems, skin irritations, fatigue and nausea.

It has also been classified as a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), meaning it can cause cancer if the proper safe precautions are not followed. Worryingly, there are studies that have also linked exposure to formaldehyde to damage to the female reproductive system and the nervous system.

What does UK law say about formaldehyde exposure?

While Workplace Exposure Limits exist, it is not always a guarantee that these are adhered to and plans to impose legal limits in line with the EU were shelved after Brexit.

Currently, the legal limit for exposure to formaldehyde as set by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is two parts per million (ppm) over eight hours, which is seven times higher than the EU and the highest defined limit anywhere in the world.

Research conducted by pathologist Dr Richard Yates and academic Dr Magdalena Plesa revealed that 70% of the 117 NHS pathology departments in England had regularly exceeded the EU safety threshold over 12 months – and 34% has exceeded the higher UK limit.

How should employers protect against formaldehyde exposure?

According to the HSE, the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 sets out the employer’s legal obligation to assess risks and implement safety control measures to protect employees. This involves reducing exposure to the lowest reasonably practicable level.

Simon Matthews, a specialist industrial disease solicitor at Slater and Gordon, added: “We would always urge businesses to be certain they are taking all possible precautions to protect their employees, and for anyone with concerns over likely exposure to formaldehyde to raise them, so they can get the support they need.

“No one should suffer harm at work because of employers not fulfilling their duty of care – and for anyone who fears this is not the case, or has not been historically, we would urge them to come forward.”

Legal support from Slater and Gordon’s industry-leading industrial disease solicitors

Simon urges anyone who suspects they have worked, or currently work, in an environment where formaldehyde may be present should be vigilant. He commented: “Often, the impact of formaldehyde takes years, even decades, to become apparent, and people suffer greatly as a result. We also see many people whose symptoms have presented more quickly – people who are still working today in environments where formaldehyde is present.”

Exposure to formaldehyde – particularly over a number of years – can be incredibly dangerous and led to significant illness. If you’ve been made ill due to dangerous levels of formaldehyde exposure in the workplace, our award-winning industrial disease solicitors are here to help you.

To learn more about how we can support you and your family, speak to Simon Matthews about making a claim on 0330 041 5869 or you can arrange a call back online using our contact form.