August 25, 2006—In cooperation with the German Ministry of Health, the Federal Environmental Agency of Germany has released updated indoor air emissions criteria for the coveted Blue Angel Eco-Label, making these criteria for office equipment with print functions among the most stringent in the marketplace for low-emitting products.
“Print devices have the potential to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ozone, and particles during operation. These emissions must be kept as low as possible to maintain good indoor air quality and to protect the health of building occupants and employees,” said Marilyn S. Black, PhD, Chief Scientist with Air Quality Sciences Inc. (AQS), the only US laboratory accredited by Blue Angel for emissions testing.
The new RAL 122 standard, which has been harmonized with the European Manufacturer’s Computer Association ECMA 328 standard, has acceptable emissions levels for total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), ozone, benzene, styrene and airborne particles. All emitting individual VOCs must be reported.
“Because the GREENGUARD Certification Program accepts the RAL Standard 122 levels for low emitting printers, copiers and multifunctional devices, manufacturers may voluntarily choose to have their products certified or listed to meet the GREENGUARD standard as well as approved by Blue Angel. With AQS being the only accredited US laboratory to offer certification testing for both of these standards, manufacturers and users of office equipment now have a tremendous opportunity to use one lab to ensure products are meeting global requirements,” Dr. Black said.
To learn more about AQS, Blue Angel and GREENGUARD, visit the Web sites, respectively.
