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Safety Alert - 3D Printers

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Posted on Wednesday 12 November 2025

3D printers are becoming more widespread across the University. As the technology has developed, and its use increased, there is emerging evidence of health and safety risks associated with the process.
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Whilst sufficient testing on the possible long term health effects has not been carried out, it is believed people with respiratory health issues, including asthma, would be most at risk. Long-term exposure to 3D printer fumes may also increase the potential risk for users such as technicians, who work for extended periods in proximity to multiple 3D printers. 3D printers also pose a fire risk and suitable controls should be put in place to minimise the risk.

General risk assessments, laser risk assessments (if applicable) 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.

To ensure the safety of those operating or working in the vicinity of 3D printers, the following precautionary approach should be taken.

  • Only use suitable equipment.  3D printers should be UKCA/CE marked and have an emergency shut off. Where printers do not have emergency shuts offs, room isolation should be provided. 
  • 3D printers should be purchased as fully enclosed and include filters to remove particulate and chemical emissions. 3D printers which are not enclosed should have enclosures retrofitted.  The filters should be changed according to supplier’s instructions; users may need to note how long the machine is in use to determine when they should be changed.
  • Due to the fire risk from the heat produced, the 3D printing process should be monitored to check for overheating. There must be fire detection present in the room.
  • If overnight/extended periods of 3D printing are planned, this should only take place in fully enclosed 3D printers (ideally with fitted fire suppression systems). A Safe System of Work should be undertaken for any overnight 3D printing. It is recommended that a notice is also left in place by the 3D printer with contact details in case of emergency.
  • 3D printers should be located in a room that is well ventilated. Additional ventilation may be required as laser 3D printers produce additional heat. Access to the space should be suitably controlled with sufficient space to move around the machines.  The area should be kept clean and tidy and free of combustible materials.  There should be fire detection present in the room.
  • 3D printers must be switched off and isolated from the mains before cleaning or carrying out maintenance. Only competent persons should carry out cleaning and routine maintenance work. Maintenance contracts should be in place for the 3D printers.

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)