Is working in an office with laser printers harmful to your health? That’s what a study released in 2007 suggested. Now a new report has some of its own answers.

In August 2007, research published in the American Chemical Society’s Environmental Science & Technology journal claimed many laser printers release potentially harmful “ultrafine” toner particles into the air. Researchers classified 17 out of 62 printers they tested as “high particle emitters.”

As for specific health risks, there was no definite conclusion. Hewlett-Packard was quick to jump in and say there was no reason to be concerned, and the actual makeup of the particles couldn’t be accurately characterized.

A follow-up study, led by professor Lidia Moraswka of Queensland University in Australia, gets one step closer to answering the question on office workers’ minds.

The report mentions the specific chemicals detected during testing (hexane, toluene, ethyl benzene and styrene, to name a few) and states: “Several studies have reported that laser printers can be significant sources of ultrafine particles — a complex pollutant whose toxicological effects have recently been acknowledged by the World Health Organization.”

However, the study didn’t delve into what the effects might be and how serious they are.

To minimize whatever risks are there, make sure printers and copiers are placed in well-ventilated areas.

Tags: health, indoor air quality, laser printers, ultrafine particles