On the Job: Particles from Printers
A culprit has been identified as a contributor to lowering the air quality at work. The average printer or photocopier releases particles into the air which may contribute to health problems ranging from eye, nose and throat irritations to possible cardiovascular and cancer health hazards. According to recent research from the Queensland University of Technology’s Air Quality and Health Program, particulate matter levels were five times higher during the workday inside a nonsmoking office building than outside near a highway. These findings lead to further investigation of identifying the source of airborne pollutants.
The research team tested 62 laser printer models from Canon, Hewlett-Packard, Ricoh and Toshiba. Of the laser printers tested 17 were shown to be "high particle emitters." Although 60 percent of those tested released no particles at all, one case was compared to the equivalent of standing next to a cigarette smoker. The particulate levels increased when printing graphics or photographs that require larger amounts of toner and when using a new toner cartridge.
Office staff should be aware that photocopiers and laser printers can give off by-products that if present in high enough concentrations can cause a variety of health problems. The by-products range from a variety of chemicals (selenium and cadmium sulphide, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxide) as well as carbon black contained in toners. The machines should be in a well-ventilated area with ample space away from the staff (minimum three metres away) preferably in a separate room. Regular maintenance, including cleaning or replacing of filters should be done periodically. Toner should be handled with care and gloves worn.
