In Australia, the standards for Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in plywood are guided both by the National Standards and relevant state regulations. Different states and territories may have some additional regulations governing VOC emissions, so it's crucial to check local guidelines for compliance.
What are VOCs?
VOCs are organic chemicals that can evaporate into the air and may have harmful health effects. You can find regulatory limits in the CSIRO report.
Australian Standard (AS 2270)
AS 2270 specifies the limits for VOC emissions from timber-based panels, including plywood. The standard sets the criteria for acceptable levels to ensure internal air quality and environmental safety.
Plywood products are mostly tested for VOC emissions (for example, formaldehyde), which are common in wood. In particular, the acceptable formaldehyde emission level for interior plywood use is typically set at E1 or E0, where E0 indicates very low emissions.
Green Star and NABERS
A lot of projects aim for sustainability certifications, such as NABERS (National Australian Built Environment Rating System) or Green Star. Using low-VOC plywood products promote better indoor air quality. Also plywood products supplied in Australia can have environmental product declarations (EPDs) that disclose environmental impact, including VOC emissions. This transparency helps final consumers make informed decisions.
Ply Online plywood products comply with European and Australian Standards. To learn more contact us.
