Industrial Hygiene and Safety

Laser Safety Program

Laser safety is important for faculty, staff, researchers, students, and visitors. Safety training educates users about the potentially hazardous levels of radiation, including collateral hazards, associated with laser use.

The Laser Safety Officer (LSO) ensures that no laser radiation, in excess of the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) limit, reaches the human eye or skin, and ensures that adequate protection against collateral hazards is provided. We have the authority to suspend, restrict, or terminate the operation of a laser system if it is deemed that laser hazard controls are inadequate or the method of operation presents a threat to human health, property, or the environment.

Laser Safety Training

  • Required for: All users of Class 3B and 4 Lasers.
  • How do I get training? Contact the Laser Safety Officer at (706) 721-2583

Laser Safety Program Policy

Laser Pointers

More information

Contact Us

Radiation Safety Office

Health Sciences Campus

Environmental Health & Safety Building

CI-1002

706-721-9826

706-721-9844

Radiation Safety Tech:
706-664-8607

Campus Emergency:
706-721-2911

Basic Laser Safety

Laser safety is crucial when working with Class 3B and Class 4 lasers, as they can cause serious eye and skin injuries. Here's a list of safety guidelines for the use of Class 3B and 4 lasers:

General Safety Practices:

  • Always wear appropriate laser safety goggles designed for the specific wavelength of the laser.
  • Restrict access to laser areas to authorized personnel only.
  • Display warning signs indicating the presence of Class 3B or 4 lasers.
  • Provide adequate training for individuals working with or around lasers.

 

Control Measures:

  • Implement administrative controls, such as establishing restricted laser operation zones.
  • Use physical barriers and interlocks to prevent unauthorized access to laser beams.
  • Enclose laser systems in protective housings to minimize exposure.

 

Eye and Skin Protection:

  • Ensure that laser safety eyewear is worn by all personnel in the vicinity of the laser beam.
  • Verify the compatibility of laser safety eyewear with the specific laser wavelength being used.
  • Cover exposed skin to reduce the risk of laser-induced skin injuries.

 

Beam Alignment and Targeting:

  • Exercise caution when aligning laser beams, and always use beam stops or attenuators.
  • Keep beam paths above or below eye level when possible to minimize the risk of direct eye exposure.
  • Regularly check and align laser beams to maintain safe operation.

 

Emergency Procedures:

  • Establish emergency shutdown procedures and make sure all personnel are familiar with them.
  • Provide access to emergency eye wash stations and fire extinguishers in laser work areas.
  • Have a designated first aid responder trained in laser injury treatment.

 

Ventilation and Fume Extraction:

  • Ensure proper ventilation in laser workspaces to remove any fumes or airborne particles.
  • Use fume extraction systems to minimize the risk of inhaling hazardous by-products.

 

Maintenance and Inspections:

  • Conduct regular inspections of laser equipment and safety features.
  • Perform routine maintenance according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
  • Keep a log of maintenance activities and inspections.

 

Documentation and Record Keeping:

  • Maintain records of laser equipment specifications, maintenance, and safety inspections.
  • Document incidents, near misses, and corrective actions taken.
  • Provide clear operating procedures and guidelines for laser use.

 

Compliance with Standards:

  • Adhere to local, national, and international laser safety standards and regulations.
  • Ensure that laser installations comply with ANSI Z136.1 and other relevant standards.

 

Training and Education:

  • Provide comprehensive training for all personnel working with or around lasers.
  • Update training programs regularly to incorporate new safety guidelines and technologies.

 

Remember, this is a general list, and specific safety measures may vary based on the type of laser, its application, and local regulations. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and applicable safety standards for your specific laser system.