Measure toner dust with Gravikon PM4-2

Reports of health risks caused by toner dust from laser printers and copiers are worrying many consumers. The fine dust particles can get into the air we breathe and contaminate indoor air. People come into contact with toner dust from printers, copiers and multifunctional devices at the workplace in particular.


Possible health hazards due to toner dust

People working at computer workstations sometimes complain of red eyes, headaches or respiratory problems. As early as 2000, there were first indications of possible health problems caused by the use of laser printers and photocopiers. These devices emit volatile substances, liquid aerosols and solid dusts such as paper dust in small quantities of toner dust. More and more people are also working from home with these harmful toner devices.

Whether toner dust can be harmful to health is scientifically controversial.


In studies using controlled doses of toner dust on lung cells, the University of Freiburg was able to prove that these cells change. Similar to exhaust fumes or cigarettes , this could also trigger cancer. The Freiburg researchers also proved that even the finest particles were distributed throughout the room beyond the device area. The amount of possible emissions depends on various conditions such as the age of the device, the model or the paper used.


Another study by the Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (BAuA) came to different conclusions. Researchers reported that permissible limit values for toner dust in laser printers were far below the limits, in particular upper limits by a factor of 100. However, it was acknowledged that limit values cannot be generally applied to sensitized persons . Thus, in individual cases even smaller quantities of substances would be sufficient to trigger allergies trigger allergies.


According to TRGS 900, a value for the respirable dust fraction (A-dust) is based on a typical workplace dust density of 2.5 g/cm³. Toner dust of the dust fraction A-dust has a density of about 1 g/cm³, which results in an occupational limit value of A-dust at 0.5 mg/m³.

Even though studies on possible health risks from toner dust and other dusts have come to different conclusions, possible health impairments shouldbe minimized to the greatest possible extent . Precautions should be taken before handling toner dust , especially when purchasing the right device.


Minimize health risks from toner dust

Use less environmentally harmful toner devices with a test mark

When buying and using toner devices, it makes sense for consumers to choose devices that have been awarded the “Blauer Engel” eco-label or the DGUV test mark
. These have been subjected to special tests and are considered to be particularly low in emissions.


Use suitable copy and printer paper

Only standard-compliant copy and printer paper in accordance with DIN EN 12281 “Printing and office paper – Requirements for copy paper for duplication with dry toner” should be used. This should further reduce dust in the device and in the room air . Particularly environmentally friendly papers are certified by the RAL Environmental Label Jury of the German Institute for Quality Assurance and Certification together with the “Blauer Engel” of the Environmental Agency.


Suitable placement of the toner device

Toner machines set up in places should be regularly ventilated, such as through window ventilation or appropriate technical devices. Exhaust air openings of ventilation systems should also not be directed towards people working with such devices. In addition, heavily used communal printers, for example, should be set up in well-ventilated rooms where work is generally not carried out on a permanent basis.


Correct handling of toner cartridges

Only closed cartridges should be used and refilled in toner machines. These can emit less dusts than loose cartridges or toner refill systems, which are often not tested. Reusable cartridges labeled with the “Blauer Engel” eco-label are considered to be more environmentally friendly.

Recycling toner cartridges

To protect the environment, we recommend returning empty toner cartridges to the manufacturer for recycling. recycling. The manufacturer’s special instructions for the disposal of toner must also be observed. In addition, toner waste should be disposed of in closed containers to prevent the increased release of toner dust.


Expert operation and maintenance of the devices

To avoid unnecessary release of toner dust into the surrounding area and especially into the air we breathe, the instructions for operating the devices must be observed. Expert operation can prevent increased and unnecessary toner dust.

To avoid toner consumption and increased release of toner dust, only use the machine with a closed cover should only be copied with the cover closed. In the event of a paper jam , the jammed paper should be pulled out slowly and carefully to avoid increasing toner dust. When Replacing the toner cartridges make sure that toner does not fall out of the cartridge.

The highest potential contact with toner dust is during maintenance or cleaning of copiers and laser printers . Special protective measures must therefore be taken. During maintenance and cleaning, the cartridges should therefore be cartridges should remain closed. In particular, the wearing of safety goggles to avoid irritating the eyes. After maintenance and cleaning work, the devices and the surrounding area should be cleaned with a damp cloth and the hands cleaned with soap and cold water to prevent the remaining toner residue from sticking to the skin.


GSA Gravikon PM4-2 for dust measurement

With the GSA measuring devices Gravikon PM 4-2 (license IFA, St. Augustin) can be used to measure dusts together with the appropriate sampling head. With the PM 4-2sampling of dust from the alveolar fraction of inert dusts (fine dust) and the inhalable fraction (total dust) according to EN 481 is possible.

Possible dust pollution at the workplace, such as from toner dust, can also be avoided with the Gravikon PM 4-2 can also be sampled with the Gravikon PM4-2 .
The PM4-2 can be used flexibly thanks to mains-independent battery operation. The measuring device is also suitable for Sampling dusts in small rooms with only low concentrations of dusts and pollutants. This is achieved by its high regulated air flow rate of 4 m³/h. The maximum sampling time of two hours is relatively short.


Sources:

Image source: 123rf.com © belchonoc Image no. 166928113

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