HP rejected claims by Australian scientists that office laser printers emit ultra-fine particles, which can infiltrate the lungs and cause lasting health problems, including cancer. 12 HP printers were named in the list of the 13 highest emitters, but in a statement, HP said more testing in the area was needed.
"After a preliminary review of the Queensland University of Technology research on particle emission characteristics of office printers, HP does not agree with its conclusion or some of the bold claims the authors have made recently in press reports," HP said.
The university's report, led by Professor Lidia Morawska, concluded some printers released almost as many ultra-fine particles as a cigarette, and inhaling such particles could cause respiratory irritation, cardiovascular problems and even cancer.
HP said it stood by the safety of its products, that testing of ultra-fine particles was still "a very new scientific discipline" and that there were "no indications that ultra-fine particle emissions from laser printing systems are associated with special health risks".
Canon, whose products were also mentioned in the report, said it was reviewing its findings but said Canon printers had passed toxicity tests and posed no health risks to customers.
Epson printers were not covered by the research but a spokesman refused to comment, saying: "These claims have been around for years and years and people still buy laser printers."
HP also said "the nature and chemical composition of such particles - whether from a laser printer or from a toaster - cannot be accurately characterised by analytical technology", but Morawska said this was not true either.
Of the 62 printers tested in an office building and a particle-free chamber, 37 were found to be non-emitters, six were low, two were medium and 17 were high.
Source: The Sydney Herald Morning
No comments:
Post a Comment