Can you get radiation from a photocopier?

Photocopiers emit both visible and invisible (ultraviolet) light. For that reason they are equipped with a glass plate that stops any harmful invisible rays, while the visible light is well below the permissible exposure level. It is advisable, however, to keep the lid closed while copying.

Is it safe to work near a photocopier?

Photocopiers generate ozone (a gas produced during the high voltage electrical discharge in photocopiers) which should disperse by natural ventilation. Research has shown that ozone can exceed occupational exposure limits if the copier room is too small, the number of air changes too low, and the copier is used a lot.

What are the dangers of sitting next to a copy machine?

When a photocopier is placed in a poorly ventilated environment, it can emit carbon monoxide, a deadly, colourless, odourless and poisonous gas. Initial symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can include headaches, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea and dizziness.

Should you sit near a photocopier?

Wet-toner photocopiers emit high levels of VOCs, so if you sit near one at work, move desks.

Can copiers make you sick?

Several studies have associated chronic exposure to emissions from photocopiers in occupational settings with symptoms like breathlessness, non-allergic rhinitis, sore throat, cough, asthma, pseudo allergic inflammation of the respiratory tract, upper respiratory tract infections, skin and eye irritations, headache.

Do copiers produce ozone?

Ozone is produced by the operation of high voltage equipment such as photocopiers, x-ray equipment and electric arc welding. It is reactive, unstable and has a half-life of six minutes in office environments. It is a highly toxic gas and is the most serious health risk from photocopiers.

Where are photocopiers located?

well-ventilated rooms
Photocopiers should be placed in well-ventilated rooms or work areas to reduce the risk of injury or harm to health.

Are laser printers a health hazard?

Numerous studies have shown that the toner used in laser printers contains hazardous compounds such as metallic nanoparticles and carcinogenic substances which are emitted into ambient air during the printing process and can cause various health issues.

Are toners cancerous?

A study at the University of Rostock has found that the microscopic particles in toner are carcinogenic, similar to asbestos. Several technicians who had been working with printers and copiers on a daily basis were observed for several years. They showed increased lung problems.

What are the common occupational health risks associated to exposure of photocopiers in radiation?

How do you know if you are sensitive to ozone?

People exposed to elevated levels of ozone may experience a variety of symptoms. The most common symptom is a feeling of irritation in the eyes, nose and throat. Some people may also experience respiratory or heart symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and wheezing.

Do photocopiers emit ultraviolet light?

During the process of creating copies, both visible and ultraviolet light emits from the lamp in a photocopier. In most instances, the ultraviolet light doesn’t go beyond the glass plate in the copier. Closing the lid while making copies reduces the risk of exposure to ultraviolet light.

What are the dangers of using photocopiers?

The biggest problem people run into is when they put their hands deep into the machine to clear a jam. It’s possible to get hurt doing this. It’s not uncommon for people to cut themselves on the internal components of a photocopier by reaching their hands in.

What are the symptoms of photocopier toner poisoning?

The most common symptoms include coughing and sneezing. Some toners contain carcinogenic properties that could negatively affect your health. During the process of creating copies, both visible and ultraviolet light emits from the lamp in a photocopier. In most instances, the ultraviolet light doesn’t go beyond the glass plate in the copier.

Can you sit next to a photocopier at work?

Photocopiers emit ozone into the air, which is the main reason you should not sit next to a copier at work. Fitting an activated carbon filter to the exhaust manifold in the copier can trap ozone before it gets into the office, but proper maintenance of the filter is necessary to reduce ozone levels.