Key Terms

A laser is a device that produces light that is monochromatic, directional, and coherent.

A laser system is an assembly of electrical, mechanical, and optical components that includes a laser.

An aversion response is the closure of the eyelid, eye movement, papillary constriction, or movement of the head to avoid an exposure to a bright light stimulant.

A health care facility (HCF) is any location where a laser is used for a health care application.

Health care personnel (HCP) are individuals directly involved in the application and use of a laser for health care purposes.

A laser operator is a person who handles the laser equipment, is responsible for setting up the laser prior to use, or operates the console to control the laser parameters under supervision of the user. The operator may also be the laser user.

A laser user is a person who controls the application of the laser radiation at the working area and applies the laser energy of the laser system for its intended purpose within his or her scope of practice, license, training, and experience.

A health care laser system (HCLS) is a laser system used in health care applications.

A laser treatment controlled area is the room within which the laser system is used.

Maximum permissible exposure (MPE) is the level of laser radiation to which a person, under normal circumstances, can be exposed without hazardous effects or adverse biological changes.

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