Responsibilities

Workplace laser safety is the responsibility of several employees assigned to special roles. They work together to use lasers safely and comply with industry standards and regulations.

Laser Safety Officer (LSO)

The LSO is the one person in each facility or organization responsible for the laser safety program. This person can be the laser user, operator, or another trained individual. The LSO must have the appropriate training and experience to administer the laser, including knowledge about the following topics:

• Laser fundamentals
• Bio-effects
• Exposure limits
• Classifications
• Control measures

This individual is responsible for either performing the tasks outlined by the applicable American National Standard Institute (ANSI) standard or ensuring that qualified individuals perform the tasks. The LSO functions can be a part-time activity, depending on the number of lasers and general laser activity. The individual is often part of the corporate industrial hygiene department or a laser engineer.

The responsibilities of the LSO are as follows:

• Hazard classification: Ensure that all lasers and laser systems have manufacturer labels to indicate the appropriate hazard classification.
• Hazard evaluation: Ensure that a hazard evaluation of the laser treatment controlled areas (LTCA) has been performed prior to laser operation.
• Hazard response: Immediately inform the user of imminent danger from a laser hazard.
• Control measures: Ensure that control measures are in effect, recommend or approve alternate control measures when the primary ones are not feasible, and periodically evaluate the effectiveness of the controls.
• Standard operating procedural approvals: Establish and enforce policies and procedures for laser use.
• Protective equipment: Ensure that appropriate protective equipment is available, in good working order, and is used correctly.
• Signs and labels: Ensure that the wording on area signs and equipment labels are in accordance with ANSI regulations.
• Facilities and equipment: Approve laser installations, equipment, and any modifications prior to use to ensure that applications are consistent with the manufacturer's safety recommendations. Facilitate and manage ongoing maintenance and maintenance logs.
• Training: Provide appropriate laser safety education and training to all employees.

Laser Safety Advisory Committee (LSAC)

A Laser Safety Advisory Committee (LSAC) is responsible for establishing policies and procedures relating to safe laser usage. They oversee laser program operations, including:

• Developing and managing a laser safety program
• Verifying safety practices within areas using, operating, or storing lasers or laser systems
• Investigating all incidents and accidents involving the use of lasers
• Maintaining an accurate inventory of class 3B and 4 lasers and laser systems

Employer

The employer is responsible for providing proper safety equipment, appropriate education and training, and a work environment that is free of known and potential risks and hazards. This includes displaying relevant warning signs, safeguarding from fire and electrical hazards, and establishing and maintaining maintenance programs.

Employees

All employees, not just the LSO, are responsible for accessing and completing the training, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and following safe work practices at all times. Only trained employees should work near or with laser equipment.

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