Laser printers "as dangerous" as cigarettes

ACCORDING TO AUSSIE science boffs, an office laser printer could be as harsh on the lungs as a draw on a ciggie, with 30 per cent of laser printers coughing out potentially dangerous levels of chemicals into the air, reports The Sydney Morning Herald .

The particles emitted by these printers are capable of weasling their way into lungs and sticking around for lasting damage, comparable to puffing on a fag. Professor Lidia Morawska from the Queensland University of Technology reckons that it's definitely a a worry: "Ultra-fine particles are of most concern because they can penetrate deep into the lungs where they can pose a significant health threat."

Of 62 machines tested, it was found that 17 were high particle emitters. Other equipment was tested too, but it was found that printers are the most worrying source of lung-trouble. Much like fag smoke, the particles can cause your average respiratory troubles to Really Bad Things like cardiovascular problems or the big C.

The report, published in the American Chemical Society's Environmental Science and Technology journal, calls for government intervention and regulation. For the time being, it's advised that office management keeps rooms well ventilated. µ