====== Safety ====== Everything in life has some degree of risk. In order to make a decision about what risks you wish to expose yourself to, you need to be informed. What follows is a general introduction to hazards you may encounter while printing. While this list is not and cannot be exhaustive, __you__ should add any categories that you feel are missing. ===== Airborne Hazards ===== 3D printing is known to generate Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and microplastics. Some of these VOCs have strong smells (e.g. when printing ABS). Many people use carbon-based filters and/or HEPA filters inside their printers to filter VOCs and particulate, respectively. These have been reported to cause headaches if not properly mitigated with ventilation and/or filtration. TODO: research specific health hazards. Many ESD-Safe filaments also contain [[filaments:carbon_nanotubes|Carbon Nanotubes]], which pose a uniquely serious threat to your health. Print post-processing may also release dust (sanding) or additional VOCs (vapor-smoothing). It is always recommended to work in a well-ventilated area when using solvents, and the use of a proper, well-fitting dust mask when generating dust of any kind. ===== Physical Trauma ===== Sharp tools are never far from a print area, especially when removing support material or performing basic post-processing. While careful knife usage can prevent accidents, be sure you are prepared for the worst case. Having a well-stocked first-aid kit readily accessible goes a long way when you cut the tip of your finger off... Safety glasses are also strongly recommended when cutting printed material. The stronger the material, the more forcefully it flies away when you cut away parts of the design/support material/brim. You only have two eyes, there is not much space for that number to dwindle before you are blind. ===== Resin ===== This wiki is currently focused on filament-based 3D printers, so further information is unavailable in this area.