Personal Protective Equipment

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is considered the last line of defense against laser and biologic hazards. Every effort should be made to eliminate hazards through administrative and engineering controls first. However, PPE can be very effective, and its use is required for everyone within the nominal hazard zone (NHZ) of a Class 3B or Class 4 laser that is in operation.

Laser Protective Eyewear

Laser protective eyewear (LPE) is the most effective PPE for use around lasers and can include goggles, face shields, and prescription eyewear with special filters or reflective coatings. Eye protection specifically designed for protection by the manufacturer or selected by the LSO for protection against radiation must be used when working within the NHZ of Class 3B or Class 4 lasers. Consider the following points when selecting protective eyewear:

• Laser wavelength or range
• Optical density (OD) for that wavelength or range
• Damage threshold of the eyewear (the maximum irradiance or beam power that the eyewear will protect against for at least 5 seconds)
• Visual transmittance of the eyewear (how much visible light is transmitted to the eye)
• Field of view and curvature of the lens
• Size of the eyewear (goggles large enough to accommodate prescription eyewear)
• Ventilation to prevent fogging and general discomfort
• Effect on color vision
• Impact resistance
• Flammability

In addition, LPE must include the following information:

• Optical density at appropriate wavelengths
• Manufacturer's recommendations on shelf life, storage conditions, and appropriate cleaning methods

Note that LPE must be specifically selected to withstand either direct or diffusely scattered beams.

Patient Eye Protection

Conventional LPE may be sufficient for protecting patients' eyes during some laser procedures, but facial procedures may require the use of eye pads or laser corneal shielding. Suitable shielding will vary depending on the laser wavelength.

Protective Clothing

If there is a chance that a laser will damage the skin of the laser operator or other workers, particularly for ultraviolet lasers (0.200-0.400 m), then skin covers and sunscreen creams are recommended. For the hands, gloves will provide some protection against laser radiation. Tightly woven fabrics and opaque gloves provide the best protection. A laboratory jacket or coat can provide protection for the arms. For Class 4 lasers, flame-resistant materials are recommended.

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