Environmental Factors

Before laser control measures can be effectively established, the environmental factors where the laser is in use must be considered. The steps for assessing and controlling a laser's environment include the following:

• Determine the hazard class from the device warning label.
• Determine the type of location in order to identify the necessary degree of controls. The three types of locations are:
  • Unrestricted: Access to an open beam is unrestricted, such as in home offices or spa premises open to the public.
  • Restricted: Access to an open beam is not available to the public. This includes secured areas of hospitals.
  • Controlled: Access to any area where open beams are controlled and entry is limited only to authorized personnel.
• Determine and apply the appropriate control measures.

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