3D Printer Fumes: Are They Dangerous to Your Health?
With the growing popularity of 3D printers comes a new set of concerns, chief among them being the potential health hazards posed by the fumes emitted when 3D printing objects. Several studies have indicated that 3D printer fumes pose a risk to human health, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with these risks and how you could avoid them.
What’s in 3D Printer Fumes
When a 3D printer works, it emits fumes that contain particles of plastic, metal, and other materials. 3D printer fumes comprise two categories of ingredients: UFPs and VOCs. Ultrafine particles (UFPs) are tiny and can cause inflammation inside the eyes and nasal areas when you’re not wearing proper safety gear.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) include a wide variety of compounds emitted from certain solids and liquids. Some of these are not harmful and have a sweet smell, while others can have negative short- or long-term health effects, according to anEPA article on indoor air quality. You should take care to avoid long-term exposure to VOCs as well as UFPs.
3D printer fumes being inhaled into the lungs can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. These fumes can also irritate the eyes. And when the’re absorbed through the skin, they can raise the risk of skin irritation and other issues.
Risks of Inhaling 3D Printer Fumes
Inhaling 3D printer fumes can cause various health risks, such as the following:
Long-Term Health Effects of 3D Printer Fumes
Long-term exposure to 3D printing fumes can have the following effects:
How to Protect Yourself From 3D Printer Fumes
You can take several measures to reduce the number of 3D printer fumes you expose yourself to in your home or office environment. These include:
Take the Necessary Precautions When Working With a 3D Printer
Fumes produced by 3D printers can be harmful to your health, so it’s essential to take all necessary precautions to reduce exposure to these fumes, including adequate ventilation and protective equipment. By taking these steps, you could ensure that 3D printing is safe for you and your family or coworkers. If you expose yourself to hazardous levels of these fumes, you should seek medical attention from a qualified professional.
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