Is Your Printer as Dangerous For Your Health as Smoking?

by WiredBerries Editors — August 14, 2007

That's right, the home or office printer could be posing as much danger to your lungs as smoking cigarettes, according to air quality tests conducted by Australian scientists. An investigation of dozens of laser printers revealed that almost 30 percent of commonly used printers emit potentially dangerous levels of tiny materials into the air.

These ultra-fine particles are capable of infiltrating the lungs and causing lasting damage on the scale of inhaled cigarette smoke, said researcher Professor Lidia Morawska, from the Queensland University of Technology. "The health effects from inhaling ultra-fine particles depend on particle composition, but the results can range from respiratory irritation to more severe illness such as cardiovascular problems or cancer."

Printer and ink manufacturers are understandably upset with the study. HP released a statement claiming that the study is exaggerating the risk. "Testing of ultrafine particles is a very new scientific discipline. There are no indications that ultrafine particle (UFP) emissions from laser printing systems are associated with special health risks. Currently, the nature and chemical composition of such particles--whether from a laser printer or from a toaster--cannot be accurately characterized by analytical technology." However, HP acknowledged that "more testing in this area is needed," and that they are currently working with "leading independent authorities on this subject" to analyze any potential risk.

In the meantime, researchers advise office management to ensure that rooms where printing occurs are well ventilated to allow airborne particles to disperse. And let the intern handle your printing needs.