The Printing Industry...

Solvents

Solvents are used in the printing process, and this has health risks associated with it. There is evidence that solvent exposure can result in brain damage, with loss of memory, inability to think clearly and depression.

The solvents used by printers also contribute to global warming. Solvents used in the lithographic print process include:

• mineral oil which is the base of many inks and is used reduce its viscosity
  
  
• Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) is used as a dampening solution. It releases VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) as a it dries, and these gases contribute to the production of ozone. VOC’s are hazardous to pressroom workers. If IPA gets into the water system it is toxic to fish and other aquatic life.
  
  
• Toluene is used as a cleaning solutions and contributes to the formation of ozone
  
  
• Methyl Ethyl Ketone which is used as a solvent for lacquers, adhesives and inks and is also toxic to aquatic life

Digital publishing does not involve the use of solvents. There are no health risks associated with digital publishing. The only risk is that digital publishing can become addictive and once you have used it for one publication you will want to convert your whole back catalogue and use it for every future publication.

Contact our dedicated Digital Publishing Team:

UK on 0845 838 6888.
International enquiries +44 (0)870 766 8281
Email us at info@digital-publishing.co.uk for further information.