How to Properly Dispose of Your Old Printers and Fax Machines

Printers and fax machines are often overlooked in corporate IT decommissioning projects, but they can harbor both sensitive data and hazardous materials. Many modern multifunction printers and copiers contain internal hard drives that store images of documents printed, copied, scanned, or faxed. Before decommissioning a networked printer or copier, check for storage media and arrange secure wiping or physical destruction as appropriate.

Toner cartridges and toner powder represent a separate disposal consideration. Dry toner is classified as a nuisance dust with respiratory hazard potential, and some toner formulations contain carbon black, which is a possible human carcinogen. Empty toner cartridges should be recycled through manufacturer take-back programs (most major printer manufacturers operate these) rather than thrown in the trash. Used toner powder, from cartridges that leak or from maintenance operations, should be handled as a hazardous waste.

For the physical printer or copier itself, ask an electronics recycler whether it accepts printers, copiers, and fax machines. Providers should assess each unit for internal storage devices before processing and direct hazardous material fractions, toner residue, circuit boards containing lead solder, and mercury switches in some older models to appropriate downstream processors. Call Chicago Lamp Recycling at 866-770-2650 to schedule pickup.