They’re a vital piece of equipment in many offices but some people worry about the potential health risks associated with photocopiers. If you only use one every now and again then there’s probably no need to be concerned but if you spend a large part of your day using the photocopier, you may want to take steps to make sure it is used safely.
Why do people worry about photocopiers?
Perhaps you’ve never stopped to think about the health problems a photocopier can cause. And from the outside it can seem like a harmless device. However, every time a photocopier fires into action, complex electrical and chemical processes takes place which could be harmful to health. Some of the common concerns include:
Toners – in older photocopiers, liquid toner may need to be changed by hand and this could cause skin or respiratory irritation. However, most modern photocopiers now use a toner cartridge which means you are less likely to come into direct contact with the toner.
Bright lights – when making a copy, photocopiers emit a bright light which could be harmful to your eyes. It’s therefore important to always keep the lid firmly closed when using the photocopier. Ultra-violet light may also be released when the copier is in use but usually at levels that pose no risk to health.
Electro-magnetic fields (EMFs) – as with many pieces of office equipment, photocopiers emit EMFs which some believe can be harmful to health. Research has so far not proven conclusively what harm can be caused by EMFs but if you are using a photocopier on a regular basis or for a long length of time, it makes sense to take a step back away from the machine whilst it is in use.
Gases – photocopiers have been found to emit gases such as Ozone. If these reach high levels, they could cause eye and respiratory irritation. In more serious cases, severe exposure could cause lung damage. Keeping photocopiers in a well-ventilated area can help prevent these problems.
Noise – older or larger photocopiers can be very noisy and if you have to work near one that is in use for much of the day it could cause headaches or concentration problems. If this is an issue, speak to your boss about moving your desk further away from the photocopier.
To help prevent health problems in the office caused by photocopiers, it’s worth taking some basic precautions:
- Update older photocopiers with modern versions and always buy new photocopiers from reputable suppliers
- Make sure photocopiers are serviced regularly
- Position photocopiers away from workstations. If possible, keep the photocopier in a separate room
- Make sure staff know how to use the photocopier safely – including how to change toner safely, and how to fix paper jams without causing injury
- Ensure there is adequate ventilation around the photocopier
- Avoid using the photocopier for extended periods of time
For more information about safety in the workplace, visit: www.hse.gov.uk
