A recent study exploring the health risks faced by university professors due to the use of whiteboard markers has revealed concerning findings about exposure to volatile organic compounds known as BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene). The research, conducted by the Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, involved 30 professors utilizing markers for teaching and 20 control subjects using alternative teaching aids.
Researchers collected urine and air samples from both groups, analyzing them for BTEX compounds using gas chromatography. The results displayed statistically significant differences between the two groups, with mean urinary concentrations of benzene at 82.59 µg/L for the case group—those using whiteboard markers—compared to 65.36 µg/L for the control group. For toluene, the concentrations were 128.47 µg/L and 85.65 µg/L respectively. Notably, ethylbenzene levels were also found to differ: 9.09 µg/L for the professors against 25.16 µg/L for the control group, indicating potential health risks associated with marker usage.
The study assessed the mean lifetime cancer risk (LTCR) associated with benzene and ethylbenzene exposure. The reported LTCR for benzene was 8.27 × 10−8 and for ethylbenzene, it was 9.38 × 10−8, both of which fall below the acceptable limits set by health agencies. Despite this, the heightened concentration of these compounds among users of whiteboard markers raises concerns about long-term health effects.
Air sampling was performed during the academic seasons of autumn and winter, where researchers utilized techniques accredited by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to collect air samples for detailed analysis. The results demonstrated indoor air concentrations of BTEX compounds were significantly higher for the case group when compared to the control group, which corresponds to the usage of whiteboard markers.
This study highlights the health risks presented by conventional whiteboard markers, which are known to contain organic solvents and other chemicals capable of irritating the respiratory system, eyes, and even impacting the central nervous system. Researchers expressed concerns on the lack of awareness among educators about these risks. According to the authors of the article, "It is important to utilize alternative teaching methods...instead of traditional whiteboards and chemical markers."
Previous studies reflected similar sentiments with markers identified as substantial sources of volatile organic compound emissions, especially within school environments. For example, exposure to these chemicals can lead to both immediate health concerns and more serious long-term impacts, including cancer.
Research has long indicated low-level exposure to BTEX compounds can lead to serious health symptoms, such as fatigue and respiratory irritation. The inhalation of benzene—a known carcinogen—is particularly troubling, as it has been associated with various types of cancer.
Despite health risks posed by markers, classrooms largely remain uninformed about alternative teaching aids. Transitioning to non-toxic or electronic methods could greatly reduce exposures and mitigate health risks for educators and students alike.
Overall, the findings from this study not only contribute valuable data on the exposure risks of BTEX compounds among university professors but also call for action to promote safer educational environments. Addressing this issue is imperative and prioritizing the health safety of educators should be the focus of future discussions surrounding teaching practices.
Future research is needed to analyze the long-term effects of regular exposure to BTEX compounds and reinforce safety protocols across educational institutions. Establishing policies ensuring teacher awareness about potential risks of various teaching aids is equally important. Armed with this information, educators can make informed decisions for safer classroom environments.