For information regarding MDF its composition, its safe use and the impact on the environment read the WPIF publication
MDF - Versatile & SafeFurther information can be found on the Health & Safety Executive's website, which has a 'frequently asked question' section on MDF
MDF Frequently Asked QuestionsThe Industry statement regarding Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) gives a basic understanding of the current knowledge and regulatory issues relating to VOCs from wood based panels.
As of 6th August 2026, a new EU REACH requirement for formaldehyde, known as a Restriction (COMMISSION
REGULATION (EU)
2023/1464), will come into force for all products placed on the EU market with specific emission limits
(0.062mg/m3 for
wood-based panels, furniture and vehicles, and 0.08mg/m3 for all other products). This will apply to any actor
in the
chain selling it onto the next until the end user, as each step will be considered as placing on the
market.
The restriction text specifies the testing conditions required to be used for meeting the limit values. The
wood-based
panel sector has used EN 717-1 for many years which has the same test conditions as set out in the
restriction.
Restriction text can be found here:
https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32023R1464