Laser Safety Recommendations

As part of your research, you may be required to work with high-powered lasers (Class 3 & 4) that emit hazardous levels of optical radiation. Below we outline some recommendations. However, it remains your responsibility to ensure the health and safety of yourself and of other people who may be affected by your acts or omissions. Please liaise with your local laser safety officer to arrange appropriate risk assessments and ensure that you adhere to all relevant legislation in your region of the world. The following URLs link to various laser safety resources:

Training videos:

Lund University, Sweden: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lV6s7NoFsSU
Playlist of 4 laser safety videos by the National Physical Laboratory, UK: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLK_1ot5udXXUdcz-0gV815SYY8qmcM7tB
Laser Safety in Higher Education, UK: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Me1MEatJAcQ

Legal texts & Guidelines:

USA: ANSI Z136 Standards - Guidelines for Implementing a Safe Laser Program
European Union: Directive 2006/25/EC - artificial optical radiation
Non-binding guide to good practice for implementing Directive 2006/25/EC ‚artificial optical radiation’
Laser protective eyewear is regulated in the EU under EN 207 and internationally under IEC 60825-1:2014.

Laser safety equipment:

Equipment required to comply with local laser safety regulations may include:
Warning labels
Illuminated warning signs
Laser protective eyewear (a selection of protective eyewear can be found here)
Interlocks
Swipe-card or code locked doors
Please liaise with your local laser safety officer to obtain required equipment.

GENERAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:

• Class 3 Lasers: While less powerful than Class 4, these lasers can still pose a risk under direct exposure. Use caution when handling and always employ beam blocks or terminators to prevent unintentional exposure

• Class 4 Lasers: Due to their high power, Class 4 lasers present a risk of eye and skin damage, as well as fire hazards. Strictly follow all control measures, including beam enclosures and fire safety protocols. Be aware of and prepared for non-beam hazards such as electrical, chemical, and fire risks associated with these lasers

1. Training and Competence:

   • Only operate lasers after receiving comprehensive safety and operational training.

   • Ensure you fully understand the risks associated with laser use and feel competent to perform your duties safely.

2. Controlled Access:

   • Do not enter a laser operation area (laser room) while the laser is active. Always knock and await permission to enter.

   • Keep the door closed during laser operations to prevent unauthorized access or exposure.

3. Eye Protection:

   • Mandatory use of laser safety eyewear that matches the laser's wavelength and power specifications. This is crucial for Class 3 and Class 4 lasers, which can cause immediate eye damage upon direct or scattered exposure

4. Emergency Procedures:

   • In case of a fire alarm, immediately turn off the laser, remove the key, and evacuate the area following established emergency protocols.

5. Environmental Controls:

   • Maintain high ambient lighting levels to minimize pupil dilation, reducing the risk of accidental eye exposure.

   • Remove reflective personal items (e.g., jewelry) before entering the laser area to prevent beam reflection hazards.

6. Equipment Handling:

   • Securely clamp all optical components to prevent misalignment and accidental beam exposure.

   • Enclose the laser beam path where possible. Unenclosed beams must be approved by a risk assessment conducted with the Laser Safety Officer (LSO).

7. Beam Management:

   • Maintain laser beams at a horizontal level to ensure predictability and ease of management. Avoid vertical or skewed beams is possible.

   • Never position yourself below the beam height. If an object falls, block the beam at its source before attempting retrieval.

8. Seating Arrangements:

   • If sitting is required during laser use, ensure the chair height positions your head above the beam level to avoid accidental exposure.

INSS is not liable for indirect or consequential damages, including personal injury or property damage, arising from the use of INSS products in combination with any other instrument or device, in particular lasers or other devices that emit hazardous levels of optical radiation.