The next step

For a copy of the HSE’s research report RR1146

[Document]

3D Printing In Schools and Colleges: Managing the Risks

[Document]

Safe use of small 3D printers

A new risk

3D printing has become more popular as the technology has dropped in price. It’s now possible to obtain a basic machine starting from a few hundred pounds. Although this equipment is relatively low risk, if you’re thinking of using one in your organisation, you should bear in mind that they are known to release potentially harmful fumes and particles. They generally use filaments to deposit polymer through a heated nozzle, and it’s this process of heating and working the plastic which raises the concern.

Legal setting

Under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 , and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) you must protect employees and others from harm arising from your activities, including 3D printing. In fact, the standard for risk management set out within the COSHH Regulations require that exposure to hazardous substances is avoided, and where that is not possible, that exposure is kept to a minimum. In practice you’re obliged to focus firstly on avoiding exposure, e.g. by putting the printer into a fume cupboard, with other options being safe systems of work, altering processes, issuing personal protective equipment, training and so on.

Controlling the risk

Studies have found that filament combustion products may present a risk to health when inhaled. This is because heated filaments emit large quantities of very small particles and volatile organic chemicals. Those who already have breathing difficulties or asthma are the most at risk, but clearly it’s undesirable to have anyone inhaling these substances.

Control measures

The HSE has published a research report evaluating the risk and the available control measures (see The next step ).

Tip 1. There are a number of ways to reduce exposure to harmful emissions:

• set the printer nozzle to a lower temperature
• choose filament materials which have a lower emission rate and purchase from reputable suppliers
• put the printer in a clear enclosing hood with an extraction fan and particulate filter
• wait approximately 20 minutes before opening the enclosing hood.

Note. A securely locked enclosing hood also reduces the risk of incidents and injuries, e.g. trapping fingers in moving parts or sustaining burns from hot areas of the printer. It is quite usual for cheaper 3D printers to come without any enclosure, therefore this is something to consider when selecting a product.

Tip 2. A practical guide has been produced for schools and colleges following the HSE’s research report. It’s worth a read regardless of whether you are in education (see The next step ).

For a copy of the HSE’s research report RR1146 and 3D Printing In Schools and Colleges: Managing the Risks, visit http://tipsandadvice-healthandsafety.co.uk/download (HS 18.17.07).