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| September 25 | |
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Monitoring Allergies |
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If you’ve purchased a new computer monitor lately, you may have gotten more than you bargained for. A new study says that new computer monitors may make you sick. The research suggests that new monitors might trigger allergic reactions. According to an article published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology, more than half of new computer monitors may be treated with a flame retardant chemical called triphenyl phosphate, or TP, for short. TP is found in a number of everyday products, like varnishes, lubricants, plastic materials as well as electronics, like TV’s and computers. And it can trigger allergy symptoms when inhaled. The TP used on computer monitors gets into the air as the computer terminal heats up with use. Even though the levels in the study dropped after a week of continuous use, the levels within a two foot area in front of the computer screen were still 10 times as high as the surrounding office air—as much as 6 months later. The researchers suggest that the best way to minimize the effects of TP is to turn on a new computer monitor and leave it on for 10 days before you begin to use it—that can help to reduce the amount of chemical that might be breathed in. |
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What type of reactions are we talking about? They are generally mild, like itching or tearing of the eyes. If you notice these symptoms when you’re working at the computer, you should walk away and get some fresh air. Also, make sure your work area is well-ventilated. | |
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REFERENCE:
Hakan Carlsson, Ulrika Nilsson, and Conny Ostman. Video Display Units: An Emission Source of the Contact Allergenic
Flame Retardant Triphenyl Phosphate in the Indoor Environment.
Environmental Science & Technology 34(18), 3885-3889. RESOURCE:
The Inside Story |
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