Does MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) give off Formaldehyde when it is cut or routed?
A. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has concluded that machining of MDF is no more, or less, hazardous than working with other forms of wood. In short, formaldehyde is not considered to be a problem. The HSE has previously suggested that an FFP2 respirator could be evaluated for cutting or routing MDF in ventilated workshops eg. 3M™ 8822 / 9322 Respirators. Alternatively, you could try the 3M™ Powered Air & Airfed Respirators which have the added advantage of providing eye protection & head protection, depending on the model chosen.
