Exposure to BTEX concentration and the related health risk assessment in printing and copying centers

This study was derived to investigation of BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes) concentrations in printing and copying centers (PCCs) in Ardabil city of Iran. Fifty-three PCCs were randomly selected from all the 136 number of PCCs and BTEX was sampled form their indoor air. The results showed that the concentration of BTEX in the indoor air PCCs is lower than the OELs (occupational exposure limit) in all cases. The obtained mean concentrations of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene were 93.6 +/- 63.2, 150.6 +/- 99.2, 34.3 +/- 16.8, and 29.5 +/- 15.2 mu g/m(3) respectively. Type of printer, number of printing and copying device, and type of ventilation system had significant influence on the BTEX concentration. The mean inhalation lifetime cancer risk (LTCR) value for benzene and ethylbenzene in the indoor air of the PCCs with LaserJet and inkjet printers was 44.4 x 10(-6) and 153.3 x 10(-6), and 23.4x10(-6) and 54.2x 10(-6), respectively, which were higher than EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and World Health Organization (WHO) recommended limits. The hazard quotient (HQ) of benzene in the indoor air of the PCCs with inkjet printers was >1, which indicates that the non-carcinogenic risks associated with exposure to these compounds are considerable.

Automated summary

The study in Ardabil city of Iran investigated BTEX concentrations in printing and copying centers (PCCs) and found that the levels were lower than the occupational exposure limits. Factors such as type of printer, number of devices, and ventilation system significantly influenced BTEX concentrations. The study also revealed potential health risks associated with exposure to certain compounds in the indoor air of PCCs with inkjet printers.