In recent years, several alarming cases across the country have shown that indoor formaldehyde levels often exceed safe limits, leading to health issues for residents, miscarriages in pregnant women, and even serious illnesses like blood diseases. While many of these cases were resolved through legal means, the impact on families’ health and safety remains a major concern.
**Healthy Consumption, Green Home**
Co-organizer:
Chengdu Consumers Association
China Interior Decoration Association
Green Home Environmental Technology Working Committee
Chengdu Green Home Industry Association (sponsored)
**Classic Cases**
**Case 1: The First Case of Indoor Formaldehyde Pollution**
In 1998, Mr. Chen moved into a newly renovated home and soon began experiencing severe health problems. He was diagnosed with laryngeal papilloma and underwent surgery. Tests revealed that the cause was high levels of free formaldehyde released from the building materials. The formaldehyde concentration was 25 times higher than the national standard. Mr. Chen filed a lawsuit against the decoration company. In December 2001, the Beijing No. 1 Intermediate People's Court ruled in his favor, ordering the company to compensate him for medical expenses, inspection fees, removal costs, and rent—totaling 89,000 yuan—and to remove the contaminated materials within 10 days. This case marked the first legal precedent for indoor air pollution caused by poor construction quality.
**Case 2: Furniture Pollution Incident**
On September 3, 2001, Teacher Yang from a Beijing university sued a wooden furniture factory after suffering from health issues following the installation of new bedroom furniture. Within a month, the entire family experienced discomfort. Testing by the China Indoor Decoration Association found that the formaldehyde level in the room was over six times the national limit. After failed negotiations, the case went to court, and the factory agreed to return the furniture and pay 7,000 yuan in compensation.
**Case 3: A Mother and Child Affected by Blood Disease**
In January 2002, Li Mou moved into a newly renovated house. After three months, both he and his mother developed aplastic anemia. Tests showed that formaldehyde levels were 12.6 times the standard, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were 3.3 times higher. After a nine-month trial, the Xuanwu District Court in Nanjing ruled in Li’s favor, awarding him 590,065 yuan in damages.
**Key Points**
Besides formaldehyde, other harmful substances such as benzene, ammonia, toluene, xylene, and TVOC (total volatile organic compounds) should not be ignored. These pollutants can also pose serious health risks. According to Wang Zheng, deputy director of the Institute of Wood Industry at the Chinese Academy of Forestry, while efforts are being made to reduce formaldehyde emissions, there is still limited research on how this affects product performance and whether it leads to increased levels of other harmful chemicals.
Consumers are advised to pay attention to TVOC levels when choosing building materials and furniture. It’s crucial to test the indoor environment before moving in. New regulations require merchants to cooperate with customers in conducting indoor air tests for formaldehyde, benzene, ammonia, toluene, xylene, and TVOC, ensuring compliance with GB50325 standards.
When purchasing materials, consumers should look for certifications like the "Ten-Ring" label, which ensures low TVOC emissions. The "Green Plate Purchasing Regulations" set high environmental standards and include benzene, toluene, xylene, and TVOC as key indicators. Choosing products with these certifications can help prevent indoor pollution and ensure a safer living environment.
By taking proactive steps, consumers can protect their health and create a truly green home.
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