Procedural Controls

The LSO should establish procedural controls to avoid hazards associated with Class 3B and Class 4 lasers. Components of procedural controls include:

• Adhering to written policies and procedures
• Assigning a dedicated person to operate the controls when appropriate
• Maintaining a list of authorized laser users
• Ensuring that operators know the location and operation of emergency stop controls
• Using only diffusive reflective materials or instruments with low reflectance in or near a beam path

Education and Training

It is the responsibility of management and the LSO to ensure that all employees working with or around a laser have been properly trained in the facility's policies and procedures as well as standard operating procedures, including required PPE.

It is the employee's responsibility to follow all recommended policies and procedures and to make every effort to put safety first when working with or around laser equipment.

Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs)

The ANSI Z 136.1 standard requires an SOP for a Class 4 laser and recommends SOPs for Class 3B lasers. The LSO should include in the SOP those individuals who operate, maintain, and service the equipment. Most laser equipment comes with instructions for safe operation. However, the instructions sometimes are not well-suited to a specific application due to special use conditions. Use the utmost caution.

Many laser eye accidents occur during alignment. The procedures require extreme caution. A written SOP is recommended for all recurring alignment tasks.

To learn more about Laser Safety visit our Laser Safety Online Training web page.