LSO Responsibilities

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 program and must be authorized by the health care facility. This individual is responsible for either performing the tasks outlined by the Applicable American National Standard Institute (ANSI) or ensuring that the tasks are performed by qualified individuals. The LSO can delegate tasks to the most appropriate clinical and technical support staff.

The responsibilities of the LSO include the following:

• Hazard Classification: Ensure that all lasers and laser systems have been labeled by the manufacturer 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.
• Procedure Approvals: Establish and enforce policies and procedures for health care laser system (HCLS) 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 HCLS installations, equipment, and any modifications prior to use to ensure that applications are consistent with the manufacturer's safety recommendations. Ensure that periodic maintenance is carried out and that maintenance records are maintained.
• Training: Ensure that appropriate laser safety education and training is provided to all people associated with lasers.

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