Formaldehyde in Hospitals

Formaldehyde is widely used in hospitals for the fixation of biopsy samples, as it is the only product that ensures long-term preservation of the samples. However, it is not always possible to have a fume hood nearby when the biopsy sample is extracted.

The Safety System

To address this issue, hospitals within the Institut Català de la Salut (Spain) and all affiliated primary care, emergency, and other healthcare centers have adopted a safety system designed to minimize worker exposure.

With this system, the sample is first placed into the container, which is then securely closed before the formaldehyde is introduced. This process significantly reduces exposure to formaldehyde vapors. Additionally, these closed-system containers are designed to prevent spills during transport and are leak-proof, ensuring that the sample remains in constant contact with the formaldehyde for optimal preservation.

This system has enabled healthcare workers to handle biopsy samples with greater safety, achieving zero exposure to formaldehyde in all hospital and care center settings. It also facilitates secure transportation, guaranteeing both the preservation of the sample during transit and its stability over time.