WASHINGTON-- A House panel is hearing testimony Thursday about problems with formaldehyde fumes in FEMA trailers provided to storm victims.

Formaldehyde is used in a number of materials in the trailers, including the particleboard used to make walls and cabinets.

The agency has said that the trailers conform to industry standards and that proper ventilation can reduce the fumes. But Wednesday, FEMA asked the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to take a closer look at the issue to see if contamination levels are toxic.

FEMA has received dozens of complaints.

Formaldahyde is a carcinogen, and the fumes can irritate the eyes, nose, throat and skin.

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