EPA Modernizes Formaldehyde Limits for Wood Products Makers
Published Date: 2/11/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The EPA is updating the rules for formaldehyde emissions in composite wood products to match the latest testing and product standards. This affects manufacturers, importers, and sellers of these wood products in the U.S. The changes include new test methods and definitions, with comments open until March 13, 2026—so businesses should get ready to comply with the fresh standards soon!
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Updated Formaldehyde Test Standards
EPA proposes that regulated entities use newer editions of formaldehyde test and product standards (for example, ASTM E1333-22, ASTM D6007-22, ASTM D5582-22, ANSI A190.1-2022, and PS 1-22). If finalized, these updated standards will be the versions incorporated by reference in 40 CFR 770.99 and reflected in the scope and definitions of part 770.
New Small-Scale QC Test Method Added
EPA proposes to add ISO 12460-2:2024(en) as an allowable small-scale quality control chamber test method in 40 CFR 770.20(b)(1) and to incorporate it by reference in 40 CFR 770.99. The ISO method allows additional analytical options (for example, laser absorption spectroscopy) and is proposed as an alternative quality control method.
Certification Test Counts and Equivalence Rules
EPA proposes specific testing counts for certification: at least five supervised tests under ASTM E1333-22 or ASTM D6007-22 for composite wood product certification (Sec. 770.15), at least one supervised test for no-added-formaldehyde resins (Sec. 770.17), and at least two for ultra low-emitting resins (Sec. 770.18). Test results using ASTM D6007-22 must include a showing of equivalence under Sec. 770.20(d)(1).
Third-Party Lab Accreditation & Equivalence Frequency
EPA proposes that EPA TSCA Title VI Third-Party Certification (TPC) laboratories be accredited to ISO/IEC 17025:2017(E) with a scope that includes part 770 and the test methods ASTM E1333-22 and ASTM D6007-22 (if used). Equivalence between ASTM E1333-22 and ASTM D6007-22 must be demonstrated at least annually (or upon significant change) and, after three consecutive years of equivalence, at least every two years thereafter (Sec. 770.20(d)).
EPA Expects No Additional Costs to Small Entities
EPA states it anticipates no additional costs to stakeholders from this proposed update and certifies under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that the action will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. EPA explains the updated standards are substantially similar to previous editions and many small entities already comply with them.
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