The updated REACH regulation (Registration, evaluation, authorization and restriction of chemicals) sets stricter formaldehyde emission limits from August 6, 2026. The EU chemicals regulation (EU 2023/1464) applies to almost all products and materials intended for indoor use.
All WISA® plywood products for construction have met the requirements for years.
“WISA plywood for construction meets all requirements set for performance and safety, making material selection and use easier in construction projects,” says UPM Plywood’s Product Manager Riku Härkönen.
REACH regulation tightens emission limits
Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring substance that can be released, for example, from adhesives. However, exposure to excessive amounts of formaldehyde can cause health issues. The aim of the regulation is to support clean and healthy indoor air and harmonize requirements across the EU.
Under the updated REACH regulation, the formaldehyde emission limit for wood-based products is 0.062 milligrams per cubic meter of air. WISA plywood falls below the new limit value.
“When selecting materials, it is important to check the product’s declared intended use. For example, a product designed for outdoor use may not necessarily be suitable for indoor spaces. When sourcing products, it is also important to ensure that documentation corresponding to the product’s end use is available,” Härkönen says.
How does the new requirement compare with other formaldehyde classifications?
Formaldehyde emissions have been regulated for a long time. The updated EU REACH chemicals regulation sets the strictest formaldehyde limit values, and the regulation applies to all products intended for indoor use.
“In practice, all products intended for indoor use must meet the stricter requirements of the REACH regulation,” Härkönen says.
The EN 13986 standard, which remains in force in the European Union, regulates emissions from wood-based products in two different classes. Of these, the stricter E1 class, with a limit value of ≤ 0.124 mg/m³, applies to wood-based materials used indoors. All WISA plywood products meet both the current E1 class and the upcoming stricter formaldehyde emission requirements under Regulation EU 2023/1464.
Compliance makes customers’ work easier
In addition to meeting REACH requirements, WISA plywood products for construction have the Finnish M1 emission classification, and the products also meet the U.S. TSCA Title VI requirements for formaldehyde emissions.
“The comprehensive product documentation available for WISA plywood makes it easier to demonstrate compliance in different markets and end-use applications. When products meet the requirements and this is documented, customers can select, purchase and use materials with confidence,” Härkönen says.