Approaches to safe 3D printing: a guide for makerspace users, schools, libraries, and small businesses

Use of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology is becoming a prominent part of our modern world. However, some 3D printer users have expressed concerns about potential exposures to ultrafine particles, chemicals, and safety hazards. These printers are often used in non-industrial workplace settings such as makerspaces, schools, libraries, and small businesses. Based on these concerns, NIOSH began evaluating emissions from different printer and filament combinations operating in both chamber studies and workplace environments to understand the potential health and safety risks. This report summarizes NIOSH’s findings and recommendations for controls to protect workers using 3D printers in makerspaces, schools, libraries, and small businesses.

See the NIOSH additive manufacturing webpage to learn more.

Approaches to safe 3D printing: a guide for makerspace users, schools, libraries, and small businesses [PDF – 7 MB]

 Suggested Citation:

NIOSH [2023]. Approaches to safe 3D printing: a guide for makerspace users, schools, libraries, and small businesses. By Hodson L, Dunn KL, Dunn KH, Glassford E, Hammond D, Roth G. Cincinnati, OH: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Pub­lication 2024-103, https://doi.org/10.26616/NIOSHPUB2024103.