3D Printers

Introduction

Concerns have been raised about potential inhalation exposure of ultrafine particles and fumes from 3D printers, however, the scientific evidence is still being developed internationally. Whilst sufficient testing on the possible long term health effects has not been carried out, it is believed those with respiratory health issues, including asthma, would be most at risk. 

There are various 3D printing technologies, however, the most common used technology is FFF (fused filament fabrication) where the object is created by laying down melted plastic filament in a series of layers. The adjacent layers cool and bond together before the next layer is deposited. The most common filament used in university settings is polylactic acid (PLA).

General risk assessments and COSHH risk assessments must be conducted for 3D printer use, and the manufacturer's information and component Safety Data Sheets (SDS) should be referred to.

Hazards

The following are possible hazards that should be considered when carrying out a risk assessment for 3D printer use: 

• Ultrafine particle emissions 
• Chemical emissions 
• Moving components
• Heated components / fire caused by overheating
• Electricity 
• Heavy equipment 
• Hazardous waste
• Cleaning chemicals 

Recommended control measures

• Purchase suitable equipment: printers should be UKCA/CE marked and have an emergency shut off. Fully enclosed printers, which include filters to remove particulate and chemical emissions are strongly recommended. If printers are not contained, consider local exhaust ventilation (LEV) or an enclosure. Enclosures also protect against access to very hot components. 
• Location: rooms housing printers should be well ventilated with space to move around. Access to the space should be suitably controlled. 
• Suitable filament: wherever possible use PLA to reduce the risk from fumes and particulate emissions. Filaments can deteriorate due to the effects of temperature, humidity and light, so should be stored in sealed, dry and dark containers. Filament should be purchased from a reputable supplier.
• Nozzle temperature: use the lowest nozzle temperature practicable for the application, as specified by the filament supplier.
• Procedure: do not watch the object being created unless the printer is fully enclosed. Consider segregating the printer and workspaces if the printer is going to be continuously or regularly used each day. If the printer is fitted with an enclosure, the enclosure should be left in place once printing has finished for a minimum of 20 minutes to allow enough clearance time for contaminants and to allow cooling of the heated elements. Due to the fire risk from the heat produced, no overnight printing should be carried out and the printing process should be monitored to check for overheating.
• Cleaning and maintenance: machines must be switched off and isolated from the mains before cleaning or carrying out maintenance. Only competent persons should carry out cleaning and maintenance work. 
• Manual handling aids: use a dedicated location for the printers and fix them in place. If printers need to be moved, ensure suitable lifting equipment and trolleys are used.
• Electrical safety: visually check that all electrical connections are in a good condition before using printer. Ensure that the machine is correctly installed.

Useful links

RR1146 - Measuring and controlling emissions from polymer filament desktop 3D printers (hse.gov.uk)

G276 - 3D Printing in Schools and Colleges Managing the Risks (cleapss.org.uk)