Laser Printers May Be a Risk to Your Health

A laser printer is a common type of computer printer that rapidly produces high quality text and graphics on plain paper. Often used in work places and home offices, they have many benefits that hold them higher than the average printer. Unlike typical printers, they are able to print extremely quickly, which is needed for mass mailings such as common household bills and advertisements.

But like so many other treasures that we depend on for daily life, there lies a hidden danger.

Recent studies have revealed that common laser printers could be spewing toner's into the air, leaving you to breathe in tiny particles that can be damaging to your lungs, and your health.

Lidia Morawska, along with her colleagues at the Queensland University of Technology in Australia, studied 17 of the 62 printers as high particle emitters. A particular lazier printer that was studied pumped out particulates at a rate comparable with emissions from cigarette smoking, which leads to one question. What effect does this have on our health?

The threat level was considered high. Due to the particles being small, they are easily inhaled and then travel to the smallest passageways of the lungs.

The effects can range from irritation to much more serious illnesses, including cardiovascular problems or cancer, said Morawska.

HP printers made up the majority of those tested, having manufactured 48 out of 58 tested. At this time, there are several printers that are being considered high level emitters, listed as follows.

HP Color LaserJet 4650dn
HP Color LaserJet 5550dtn
HP Color Laser Jet 8550N
HP LaserJet 1320N
HP LaserJet 1320n
HP LaserJet 2420dn
HP LaserJet 4200dtn
HP LaserJet 4250n
HP LaserJet 5(a)
HP LaserJet 8000DN
HP LaserJet 8150N
TOSHIBA Studio 450

Additional studies will be performed, but for now, those who use laser printers on a daily basis can take the results of this recent study and use them in order protect themselves. It is advised that all laser printers be used in a well ventilated area, and if possible, avoid using them in high traffic areas of your work place or home office.