Please consult with a Subject Matter Expert (SME) regarding each of the required controls.
| Hazard Category | Description of Risk | Required Controls (Engineering / Administrative / PPE) |
|---|---|---|
| Biological | Bioprinters that apply cells as a process feedstock, or fabricate engineered tissues, may generate aerosols containing viable biological materials, potentially creating infection or contamination risks. | Engineering: Biosafety cabinet, local exhaust ventilation, HEPA filtration. Administrative: Biosafety protocols, training, spill response procedures. PPE: Lab coat, gloves, eye protection, respiratory protection (as required). |
| Flammability & Combustible Dust | Finely divided metal powders (e.g., aluminum, titanium) and certain resins may form explosive atmospheres if dispersed. Some powders may be pyrophoric. | Engineering: Explosion-proof equipment, dust collection systems, grounding/bonding. Administrative: Proper storage, housekeeping procedures, hot work controls. PPE: Flame-resistant lab coat, gloves, safety glasses. |
| Radiation | UV lasers emit non-ionizing radiation that may affect skin and eyes. Electron beam systems may generate ionizing radiation. | Engineering: Shielding, interlocks, beam enclosures. Administrative: Laser safety training, restricted access. PPE: Laser safety eyewear (as rated), protective clothing. |
| UV Lights | Eye irritation or damage Skin burns or irritation Long-term skin damage from repeated exposure | Engineering: Enclosed printer covers UV-blocking lids/screens. Interlocks that shut off UV light when opened. PPE: Nitrile gloves, lab coat, eye protection. |
| Hot Surfaces | Extruders, heated beds, and UV lamps may exceed 200°C and cause burns upon contact. | Engineering: Guarding and warning labels. Administrative: Safe work procedures. PPE: Heat-resistant gloves when servicing. |
| Electrical | Exposed wiring or unguarded components may present shock hazards, especially during maintenance. | Engineering: Proper grounding, enclosed wiring. Administrative: Lockout/tagout procedures. PPE: Insulated gloves when required. |
| Moving Parts | Belts, pulleys, rods, and moving platforms may create pinch or crush hazards during operation or maintenance. | Engineering: Physical guards and interlocks. Administrative: Training and safe servicing procedures. PPE: Safety glasses, avoid loose clothing. |
| Asphyxiation (Inert Gases) | Nitrogen and argon used in certain additive manufacturing processes may displace oxygen if leaked, creating oxygen-deficient environments. | Engineering: Oxygen monitoring systems, ventilation, secured gas cylinders. Administrative: Compressed gas safety training, inspection protocols. PPE: None typically effective for oxygen deficiency; rely on engineering controls. |
| Sensitizers | Resins and photopolymers activated by heat or UV light may cause allergic reactions through skin contact or inhalation. | Engineering: Enclosed printers, local exhaust ventilation. Administrative: SDS review, exposure minimization procedures. PPE: Nitrile gloves, lab coat, eye protection. |
| Toxicity (VOCs & Metals) | Thermal decomposition of plastics may release VOCs. Metal powders and fumes may contain hazardous elements with potential systemic toxicity. | Engineering: Local exhaust ventilation, HEPA + carbon filtration. Administrative: Air monitoring, material substitution where feasible. PPE: Respiratory protection (as required), gloves, eye protection. |
| Ultrafine Particles (UFPs) | Processes may emit particles <100 nm, which have been associated with inflammatory cardiovascular and respiratory effects. | Engineering: Increased air changes per hour (ACH), HEPA filtration, printer enclosures. Administrative: Limit occupancy during high-output printing. PPE: Respiratory protection if indicated by exposure assessment. |
