The backs of computers get covered with dust because of the internal fans; they blow hot air out of the computer case causing a partial vacuum inside the case, which sucks in air and dust from the outside. The grounded metal case of a computer will shield a lot of the EMF from the CPU and power supply. Using dust on the back of a computer case as an argument for adverse health effects makes no sense.

Casey Smit, Abbotsford, BC, Canada

It's not just the electric fields we need to be concerned about. Plastic cases put out various flame retardant chemicals, especially when they heat up. Printer inks contain known carcinogens. And anything with a motor puts out small amounts of ozone, which contributes to respitory and other health problems. Working in an office isn't as bad as sitting in a traffic jam.

But it's not that far off.

Emma, Aberdeen,

After reading this article, I do not know whether this study has been published in a peer-reviewed journal or how it was conducted (what was being measured, how and what its findings were based on, etc). In other words, there is no information at all that would help me judge how much these researchers' apparent comments are based on the study, and how much on their opinions and feelings.
Regarding the cautious approach: anyone who is used to reading the results of research knows that each day, numerous studies find a swathe of possible risks everywhere. If we responded to each one, we really would end up doing nothing. This is why we need to base decisions about risk on informed, balanced evidence, and also why the accurate and responsible reporting of research in the media is so important.
I do not know if "office smog" is a real risk to people's health, and this article has not provided any meaningful or useful evidence either way.

Danny, London,