SECTION 1: Why 3D Printing Safety Matters?
The hazards associated with 3D printing depend on the type of printer, materials used, and processes and techniques.
Briefly, 3D Printers can expose users to Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and ultrafine particles (UFPs), which vary greatly based on the material used, print method, and print temperature.
Post-processing steps can also expose users to flammable or corrosive chemicals or cuts due to handling sharp objects.
The possible effects of exposure to emissions from 3D printing equipment have not received much attention in scientific literature. Despite the rapid increase in the availability and use of 3D printers.
Occupational disorders in the industrial sector have been linked to substances that are comparable to the polymers. Also, resins which are used in 3D printers.
For instance, 3D printer emissions have been shown to contain ultrafine particles and metal dust emissions. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). All of which can be harmful.
Understanding the risks of 3D printing is crucial for women using printers at home or in shared spaces. With proper knowledge and precautions, 3D printing can be a safe and empowering experience.
SECTION 2: Ventilation & Air Quality
Indoor air is exposed to a complex mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and airborne particles produced by 3D printers.
Chemical substances known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be inhaled after evaporating into the atmosphere. Numerous health hazards are associated with them.
Such as irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. Headaches, nausea, and loss of coordination; damage to the liver, kidney, and central nervous system. Cardiovascular disease, cancer, and asthma.
A collection of tiny solids and liquid droplets suspended in the atmosphere makes up particles.
The risk to one’s health increases with particle size. Ultrafine particles (UFPs), which are the main kind produced by 3D printers, can enter your circulation and penetrate deeply into your lungs.
Particles can increase the symptoms of respiratory and cardiac diseases, irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. Also, hasten the death of those who have heart or lung conditions.
In post-printing procedures, including material surface finishing, vapor polishing, support material removal, or build plate cleaning.
Solvents such as isopropanol, ethanol, methanol, acetone, or chloroform are occasionally utilized. Many solvents are combustible, and in places with poor ventilation, the vapors they produce can provide an explosive risk.
Acetone can irritate the eyes and respiratory system, while chloroform depresses the central nervous system and may be carcinogenic.
Certain 3D printing support materials are eliminated by dissolving them in an alkaline (basic) bath with a 2% sodium hydroxide solution at pH 13. Sodium hydroxide irritates the respiratory system, is corrosive, and can result in chemical burns.
Print in a space isolated from other tasks that has a dedicated ventilation system and negative pressure. Spend as little time as possible close to the printing process. If possible, track the printing job remotely via a camera.
Include using a dedicated space for printing, ensuring active ventilation or exhaust systems are in place. Avoid printing in bedrooms or shared living areas. Maintaining good airflow is crucial for health and productivity.
Depending on the type of 3D printing, some pre-printing activities can have potential health and safety risks.
SECTION 3: Heat & Burn Prevention
The FFF extrusion nozzle usually reaches temperatures between 190°C and 260°C to soften plastic to the proper consistency for 3D printing.
If consumers touch heated parts or goods before they have a chance to cool, these temperatures might result in skin burns.
When 3D printer users attempt to remove melted plastic from the nozzle while it is still hot, skin burns are also frequently the result.
Heated build platforms that run between 55°C and 120°C may be found in certain 3D printers. By keeping the extruded plastic warm, heated build platforms reduce warping and enhance print quality.
A thermal skin burn could result from the heated build platform. Nozzles are typically below the temperature necessary to produce a fire danger when they are operating and configured correctly.
Simple Heat Safety Tips include: never touching the nozzle or build plate while printing. Allow prints and surfaces to cool completely before handling.
Using tools instead of fingers for print removal. Avoid the cleaning of melted plastic from a hot nozzle. Keep hair, sleeves, and jewelry away from heated parts.
Respecting heat zones prevents injuries and ensures safe, confident, and consistent printing.
SECTION 4: Electrical & Fire Safety
Other than standard internal fuses or external transformers, the majority of desktop FFF 3D printers lack any further electrical safety safeguards. The exposed portions of 3D printers typically have voltages between 12 and 24 volts, which is widely regarded as safe.
The use of the electrical apparatus itself may present more widespread risks. If the device is not de-energized, shock or mechanical damage during maintenance or malfunction could occur.
Electrical equipment that sparks has the potential to start an explosion or fire.
Electrical and fire safety in the context of 3D printing includes crucial practices. Such as turning off and unplugging the printer before maintenance.
Regularly inspecting power cords and connections. Keeping flammable materials and chemical vapors away. Avoid damaged cables, and use a surge protector with a stable power source.
Prioritizing electrical safety is essential for ensuring a safe workspace and home during the 3D printing process.
SECTION 5: Mechanical Safety & Moving Parts
Stepper motors, pulleys, threaded rods, carriages, and tiny fans are just a few of the numerous moving components included in 3D printers. Stepper motors can trap a user’s finger, long hair, loose clothing, head covering, or head scarf.
Even though they often lack the capacity to cause major harm. If the printer is opened for maintenance or repair without being de-energized, care should be exercised even though many systems isolate the moving parts behind enclosures.
Mechanical safety tips include never reaching into an operating printer. Securing long hair and loose clothing, powering off, and unplugging the printer before maintenance.
Using built-in enclosures and keeping hands and tools clear of moving parts. Understanding the printer’s movement helps in controlling it and avoiding injuries while printing with confidence.
SECTION 6: Chemical & Material Handling Safety
Some activities with higher potential for inhalation and skin exposures during Pre-printing include cleaning the printer heads and nozzles.
This hazard is due to the associated solvents and other cleaners used during this step, and the potential exposure to those chemicals.
Some chemicals in liquid resins used for vat photopolymerization 3D printing may cause skin irritation or sensitization. Inadvertent contact with the nozzle of an FFF 3D printer during pre-printing heating can cause skin burns.
Activities with lower potential for inhalation and skin exposures include loading solid filaments into printers, changing printer heads/nozzles, and prepping the build plate.
Safe material handling tips include storing filaments away from heat and moisture. Avoid inhalation of dust from sanding. Wear gloves when handling resin.
Use safety glasses during cutting or post-processing. For post-processing safety, it’s important to sand in ventilated areas, wear a mask while sanding or spray painting. Dispose of resin waste properly—never down the sink.
SECTION 7: Workspace Setup for Women Creators
A safe workspace is essential for productivity. Key tips for an ideal setup include having a dedicated table or workbench, proper lighting to minimize mistakes.
Organized tools to avoid clutter, a fire extinguisher nearby, and a first-aid kit within reach. Designing the space to feel empowering, calm, and functional enhances creativity in a safe environment.
SECTION 8: Monetization & Confidence Angle
To ensure credibility when selling 3D prints, safety must be prioritized. Safe practices help protect long-term health, reduce accidents, build customer trust, and support sustainable income.
Successful women makers emphasize responsible creation alongside their creative and independent ventures, highlighting that safety is paramount in 3D printing.
Research into 3D printing and additive manufacturing is ongoing. The continuing work of various organizations is aimed at developing guidance for those who use the technology.
References:
3D Printing with Filaments: Health and Safety Questions to Ask
3D Printing with Filaments: Health and Safety Questions to Ask
3D Printing with Metal Powders: Health and Safety Questions to Ask
Characterizing 3D Printing Emissions and Controls in an Office Environment
NIOSH Activities in Additive Manufacturing and 3D Printing CIAQ Overview October 4, 2107
3D Printer School Safety: A Guide for Supporting Indoor Air Quality & Human Health
UL 200B GUIDANCE DOCUMENT Safe Use of 3D Printing for Institutions of Higher Education
3D Printing Safety and Health Guidance
3-D Printers – Safe Practices and Precautions
