Remote Interlocks

Adjustments or procedures during service on the laser must not cause the safety interlocks to become inoperative or the laser radiation outside a Class 1 laser protective housing to exceed the MPE limits. The exception to this is in the establishment of a temporary laser-controlled area.

Adjustments or service on the laser require a temporary laser control area. This includes scenarios when safety locks are inoperative or when the laser radiation outside a Class 1 laser protective housing will exceed the MPE limits.

All Class 4 lasers or laser systems must have a remote interlock connector to allow electrical connections to an emergency master disconnect interlock or to room, door, or fixture interlocks. When open circuited, the interlock must cause the accessible laser radiation to be maintained below the appropriate MPE level. The remote interlock connector is also recommended for Class 3B lasers.

Such remote interlock connectors protect against someone accidentally entering a control area when a laser is in operation.

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