Statistics

In the United States, an estimated 500,000 to 700,000 health care workers are involved in the use of medical lasers. From 1984 to 1996, there were a total of 339 reported accidents, and as lasers become more widely used, the number of laser-related accidents grows every year. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include:

• Unanticipated eye exposure during alignment
• Failure to use eye protection
• Equipment malfunctions
• Improper handling of high voltage equipment
• Unfamiliarity with the equipment
• Improper storage after service
• Failure to follow standard operating procedures
• Accidental exposure during use

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