Formaldehyde Reclassification
Since 1980, there have been over a hundred studies investigating the possible link between formaldehyde and cancer. A large number of relevant publications in both animals and humans have been published in the last 20 years.
The human data, the sufficient animal evidence and the biological plausibility of cancer induction in humans exposed to formaldehyde strongly support the epidemiological evidence from the NCI (National Cancer Institute) cohort.
In 2006, the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) concluded that formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen (Group 1), based on the induction of nasopharyngeal cancer (Monographs on the Evaluation of the Carcinogenic Risk of Chemicals to Man).
More recently, formaldehyde has been classified as a category 1B carcinogen and a category 2 mutagen under the EU Regulation, effective April 2015.
Required Prevention and Protection Measures
The current European legislation has introduced several directives aimed at effectively managing work involving formalin. These directives stress the importance of either eliminating formalin entirely or substituting it with a less hazardous alternative, where feasible. In cases where substitution isn’t technically viable due to the substance’s uniqueness, utilizing closed systems to adhere to existing occupational exposure limits is required.
Moreover, efforts should be made to minimize the number of workers exposed to formalin and to reduce their level of exposure to the lowest achievable extent. Additionally, continuous monitoring of the health status of workers is mandated to ensure their safety.
Milestone Solution Against Formalin Exposure
To comply with directives and ensure the well-being of healthcare workers who regularly handle formalin, Milestone has introduced the “Zero Formalin Exposure” system line. This comprehensive solution redefines personnel safety by eliminating or strongly reducing formaldehyde exposure by the nurses and technicians in Operating Room and Histology Lab, promoting a healthier workplace environment.
UltraSAFE
Automated Formalin Dispensing System
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The unit automatically dispenses formalin into dedicated buckets, featured with one-way safety valve to prevent formalin backflow, in a closed and vented chamber. -
The operator simply places the bucket and starts the dispensing process.
SealSAFE
Fixative Filling and Vacuum Sealing System
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The unit automatically dispenses formalin and collects specimens under vacuum into dedicated bags, in a closed and vented chamber. -
The operator simply places the bag and starts the dispensing and sealing process.
TissueSAFE plus
Vacuum Sealing System
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The unit automatically collects specimens under vacuum into dedicated bags, in a closed and vented chamber.
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The operator simply places the bag and starts the sealing process.