Europe has officially adopted the EN ISO 12460-2:2025 standard to reinforce control over formaldehyde emissions from wood-based panels. Released by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), the new regulation introduces a harmonized testing method—known as the small-scale chamber method—designed to ensure better indoor air quality and enhance consumer safety.

The updated standard applies to a wide range of engineered wood products and provides a more precise framework for determining formaldehyde release levels. Formaldehyde, commonly found in adhesives and resins used in panel production, is a key contributor to indoor air pollution. Extended exposure to high concentrations can pose health risks, making consistent and accurate testing increasingly important for regulatory compliance.

Part of the broader ISO 12460 series, the EN ISO 12460-2:2025 standard emphasizes laboratory testing under controlled conditions, providing reliable and repeatable results. According to CEN, the small-scale chamber method offers a balance between accuracy and practicality, making it suitable for both routine quality control and certification procedures.

The introduction of the new standard comes as global focus intensifies on indoor environmental quality and product safety. European regulators are responding with tighter emission thresholds and stricter monitoring requirements. The EN ISO 12460-2:2025 is expected to serve not only the EU market but also support international trade by offering a unified approach to formaldehyde emission testing.