Posted By Rialto Hi, A client of mine uses an ink (Nazdar Lyson 1300) for a commercial digital printer (prints upto 1500mm wide) and has mentioned that when colour blocking they smell the ink and would this have any affect on their health. The MSDS lists the REL (its american) as 5ppm whilst the supplier lists it as 50ppm. As they only use around 12ltr a year my instinct is to say that the quantities used are relatively nominal and that their likely exposure is significantly below the limits. There is no evidence of any build up of particulate on any surrounding surfaces and they do not want to pay for any occupational monitoring if the general consensus is that the risk is very small. Any views/input would be greatfully received.

Posted By A Campbell Rialto, You may find the ink contains glycol ether at a certain percentage, this may be inhaled or absorbed and may be of interest to look into. If using small amounts and duration is minimal as suggested there could be simple ways of avoiding inhalation, direct contact, storage etc You need to conduct a coshh assessment, look at the handling, cleanup and lev systems. The air measuring will only confirm your systems are adequate or not.. depending if there are any to reduce the risk firstly?

Posted By Paul Leadbetter Richard Your client must carry out a COSHH assessment; if the result is that you cannot complete it until you know the level of exposure, then you may need an occupational hygienist to help you although, as Heather has said, Drager tubes (other colorimetric tubes are available!) may give you enough information. Paul