Our response to the WeWork phone booth story

There's been recent press about WeWork phone booths having potentially elevated levels of formaldehyde.  Zenbooth did not supply phone booths to WeWork.  Zenbooth designs, manufactures and sources in California, and the materials we use comply with stringent regulatory requirements described below.

Zenbooth Factory Showing

Background

Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring chemical compound that is a wide range of products - from apples to drinking water, to the desk you may be working at.  Typically, it does not pose a health risk to consumers, however, exposure to elevated levels of formaldehyde may lead to eye irritation or other symptoms. 

In the United States and other countries, there are regulations in place to protect people from chemicals like formaldehyde that could cause potential harm.

In particular, the EPA and California Air Quality Resource Board (CARB Phase II) has set strict standards for wood products (1). The wood we use to create our booths is tested, certified and labeled by our Californian vendors to meet those standards. 

As Zenbooth products are manufactured in California, using a Californian supply chain.  All wood products we use are tested, certified and labeled to meet CARB Phase II standards.

Other materials (such as metal, paint finishes, glues, fabrics, insulation, foam, etc.) can have risks associated with formaldehyde, odor or other volatile organic compounds.  We prefer to use wood because it is safe, durable and sustainable.  Additionally, we use sustainably grown wood and plant a tree for every product sold.

Finally, our products have an automated ventilation system that cycles fresh air into the booth once every minute to keep the air quality high. 

We value your health and safety above all else. If you have any questions about any of this, please don't hesitate to contact us.

1) Source: https://www.epa.gov/formaldehyde/frequent-questions-consumers-about-formaldehyde-standards-composite-wood-products-act)

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