Earlier this week a new study conducted by the Australian scientists revealed that certain laser printers used in offices and homes are a health risk because of the tiny particles of toner-like material released into the air.

According to the research performed by Lidia Morawska, Ph.D., and colleagues at Queensland University in Australia those particles inhaled by people may produce health problems, from respiratory irritation to more severe illnesses, such as cardiovascular problems or cancer. Among other printers, the study included models from Hewlett Packard and their results were far from great.

Today, the company reacted by issuing a press statement that rejects the results of the Australian study.

“After a preliminary review of the Queensland University of Technology research on particle emission characteristics of office printers, HP does not agree with its conclusion or some of the bold claims the authors have made recently in press reports.", the statement reads.

In the Australian study the laser printers were classified based on the emission levels as high emitters, medium or low emitters and no particle emitters.

High emitters included the HP LaserJet 1320 and 4250, which, when printing, increased the particle number in the surrounding air more than tenfold.

In its statement HP said it hopes to learn more from the study authors about how products were chosen for the study, how ranges were determined given no standards exist, and many other factors that could have influenced the results.

Also the company noted that testing ultrafine particles is a very new scientific discipline and there are not clear indications that those emissions are indeed a health risk. In HP’s opinion more testing is needed and the company is already collaborates on this issue with leading independent authorities such as Air Quality Sciences in the United States and the Wilhelm-Klauditz Institute in Germany.

“Specifically, HP does not see an association between printer use by customers and negative health effects for volatile organic compounds, ozone or dust. While we recognize ultrafine, fine, and coarse particles are emitted from printing systems, these levels are consistently below recognized occupational exposure limits.” the statement concludes.