Laser Safety Training: Online Segment Radiological and Environmental Management Purdue University with information from ANSI Z136.1 - 2007

Laser Safety Training:Online SegmentRadiological and Environmental Management

Purdue Universitywith information from ANSI Z136.1 - 2007

Modules1 Fundamentals of laser operation

2 Bioeffects of laser radiation on the eye and skin

3 Significance of specular and diffuse reflections

4 Non-beam hazards of lasers

5 Laser and laser system classifications

6 Control measures

7 Laser Safety Project Information

8 Facility and personnel responsibilities

9 Medical surveillance practices

10 Required training

11 Consequences of Non-Compliance

12 Emergency Procedures

Module 1Fundamentals of Laser Theory and Operation Laser Definition Laser Components Laser Characteristics

What is a laser? LASER: an acronym for Light Amplification

by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation Laser System: a laser and its associated

electrical, mechanical, and optical components.

UV lamps, light boxes are NOT lasers

P artia lly-R efl ec tive M irror F ully-R efl ec tive M irror

Laser Components1. Optical Cavity: resonator that provides the necessary geometry

Resonator encapsulated by a fully-reflective mirror on one end and a partially-reflective mirror on the other.

Laser Components (2)

2. Lasing Medium: causes amplification of a certain incident light at a particular wavelength. Solid-state Gas Dye Semi-conductor

Atoms at “ground-state” awaiting stimulus from energy source.

P artia lly-R efl ec tive M irror

L as ing M edium

F ully-R efl ec tive M irror

Laser Components (3)

3. Pumping System: imparts energy to the atoms or molecules of the laser medium. Optical pumping Collision pumping Chemical pumping

Energy delivered to medium, causing excitation of atoms and the release of photons.

P artia lly-R efl ec tive M irror

L as ing M edium

F ully-R efl ec tive M irror

P umping S ys tem

Q-Switch Provides laser pulses of an extremely short

time duration.

Laser Characteristics Monochromatic: either a

single wavelength or a relatively small range of wavelengths.

VS.



Directional: “parallel light beam” - small divergence over distance, unless purposely diverged (e.g. diffusing lenses).

VS.



Directional: “parallel light beam” - small divergence over distance, unless purposely diverged (e.g. diffusing lenses).

Coherent: a “fixed phase” relationship exists within the wavelength – in step.

VS.

Module 2Bioeffects of Laser Radiation on the Eye and Skin Criteria for Eye and Skin Exposure Eye Tissues Mechanisms of Eye Injury Eye Hazard vs. Wavelength Special Considerations for Ocular Exposure Mechanisms of Dermal Injury

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 8: Criteria for Exposures of Eye and Skin

Criteria for Exposures of Eye and Skin Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) limits are

below known hazardous levels. Exposures at the MPE limit may be uncomfortable. MPEs are normalized relative to the limiting

aperture area – we assume the limiting aperture area is 7mm for the pupil size of a dark-adapted eye in most cases.

Irradiance is affected by the Radiant Exposure and the Exposure Duration

Macula/Fovea

Optic Nerve

Retina

Vitreous BodyLens

Pupil

Cornea

Iris

Eye Tissues

Optic Nerve

Retina

Vitreous BodyLens

Pupil

Cornea

Iris

Eye Tissues

Macula: devoid of blood vessels; area of eye most responsible for color vision.

Fovea: center of macula; area of eye of clearest vision/focusing.

Macula/Fovea

Retina

Vitreous BodyLens

Pupil

Cornea

Iris

Eye Tissues

Optic Nerve: transmits electrical impulses from the retina to the brain; fibers enter eye at the Optic Disk.

Macula/Fovea

Optic Nerve

Vitreous BodyLens

Pupil

Cornea

Iris

Eye Tissues

Retina: innermost coat of outside of eye, responsible for vision.

Macula/Fovea

Optic Nerve

RetinaLens

Pupil

Cornea

Iris

Eye Tissues

Vitreous Body: transparent, colorless, gelatinous material which fills the eyeball chamber.

Macula/Fovea

Optic Nerve

Retina

Vitreous Body

Pupil

Cornea

Iris

Eye Tissues

Lens: focuses light onto the retina.

Macula/Fovea

Optic Nerve

Retina

Vitreous BodyLens

Cornea

Iris

Eye Tissues

Pupil: opening in the center of the iris; pupil size determines amount of light entering eye.

Macula/Fovea

Optic Nerve

Retina

Vitreous BodyLens

Pupil

Cornea

Eye Tissues

Iris: pigmented muscle that dilates and constricts, depending on ambient light.

Macula/Fovea

Optic Nerve

Retina

Vitreous BodyLens

Pupil

Iris

Eye Tissues

Cornea: transparent, layered window of eye; provides 2/3 of eye’s focusing power.


Mechanisms of Eye Injury Thermal

Potential effects: charring, edema, hemorrhage Photochemical (blue light and UV)

Potential effects: production of toxins and biochemical changes which may cause inflammation, lesions and lens opacities

Photoacoustic (short intense pulses) Potential effects: explosive forces due to

expanding gases


Eye Hazard vs. Wavelength

TARGET: CorneaFar IR (IRC): 3000 nm – 1 mmMid IR (IRB): 1400 nm – 3000 nmMid UV (UVB): 280 nm – 315 nmFar UV (UVC): 100 nm – 280 nm

EFFECT:Mid IR and Far IR: ThermalMid UV and Far UV: Acute inflammation and conjunctivitis, fluorescence of lens, corneal and lenticular opacities (“clouding”)cataractogenesis (peaks at 300 nm)



TARGET: RetinaNear IR (IRA) : 700 nm – 1400 nmVisible Light: 400 nm – 700 nm

EFFECT:Thermal burns, hemorrhage, scotoma (“blind spot”), photoretinitis (“blue light damage”)



TARGET: LensNear UV (UVA): 315 nm – 400 nm

EFFECT:Development of cataracts


Special Considerations for Ocular Exposures Lower MPE limits may be required when normal

protective mechanisms such as eye movement and pupil constriction are hindered. Inform your LPI if you think that you have a condition that may impact your susceptibility to the laser beam. For example, individuals who have had pupil dilation

performed will not have the natural defenses of the constricting iris which could limit that amount of radiation entering their eye.

Also, advanced age of an individual may reduce the ability of the iris to contract.

http://www.purdue.edu/rem/laser/laserfaq.htm

Mechanisms of Dermal Injury Thermal (from direct beam or specular reflection) for Near

UV, Visible, and IR wavelengths Potential effects: mild reddening (erythema) to blistering Severity is dependent upon exposure dose rate, exposure dose, and

conduction of heat away from the site of absorption

L A S E R

Mechanisms of Dermal Injury Photochemical (from

scatter of beam, specular or diffuse reflection) for Mid UV and Far UV wavelengths Potential effects: erythema

to blistering, possibly carcinogenic

Effects are dependent upon wavelength and exposure dose

L A S E R

L aser B arrie r

Bur n ed ag ain !DRAT!

Module 3Significance of Specular and Diffuse Reflections Specular Reflection Diffuse Reflection Specular vs. Diffuse Reflection Important Notes

Specular Reflection Mirror-like Reflection Reflected wavelength is near same shape and

intensity as direct beam Obeys the Law of Reflection: Angle of

Reflection = Angle of Incidence Occurs when wavelength of laser beam is

greater than the irregularities of the surface the beam hits

Diffuse Reflection Reflected wavelength is blurred and weaker

than direct beam Obeys Lambert’s Law or the Cosine Law of

Reflection Occurs when wavelength of laser beam is

smaller than the irregularities of the surface the beam hits

Specular vs. Diffuse Reflection Specular Diffuse

Important Notes Avoid having objects that may produce a

specular reflection in or near laser beam (e.g. jewelry, tools, etc.), unless deliberately used as part of laser system (e.g. mirrors)

Surfaces that appear dull and pitted to our eyes may be a specular surface to beams of larger wavelengths

Module 4Non-Beam Hazards of Lasers General Information Physical Agents Chemical Agents Biological Agents Human Use

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 7: Non-Beam Hazards

General Information Include physical, chemical, and biological

agents, as well as human use issues. May occur when:

material is exposed to a laser beam. laser-related materials are released into the

atmosphere. Individuals contact system components.

Written SOPs shall address non-beam hazards, as well as beam hazards.


Physical Agents Electrical Hazards

Potential Hazards Shock: risk from contact with energized electrical conductors,

power supplies, and other devices operating at potentials or 50 volts and above. (note: 600 volts and higher are considered to be High Voltage)

Resistive Heating: routinely check equipment for decay. Electric Spark Ignition of Flammable Materials: malfunction can

lead to fire; sparks may be ignition source. Potential effects: “tingle”, startle, serious injury, death. Electrical Hazard Control Measures: comply with OSHA,

NFPA 70, and state and local regulations. Must have: Fire extinguishers designed for electrical fires. Panic Button or Emergency Shutdown Switch.


Physical Agents (2)

Collateral and Plasma Radiation Ionizing Radiation: x-rays from electronic

components of laser system (e.g. voltages exceeding 15 kV) and laser-metal induced plasmas.

Non-Ionizing Radiation: UV and Visible: suitably shielded so as not to exceed

limits specified by the ACGIH TLVs. Electromagnetic Fields (EMF): MPEs set by IEEE C95 Plasma: UV and blue light


Physical Agents (3)

Fire Hazards Use flame retardant materials wherever possible. Possible affected material: beam enclosures, barriers, unprotected

wire insulation, and plastic tubing. Obtain appropriate fire protection information from manufacturer.

Explosion Hazards Possible causes: component (high-pressure arc lamps, filament

lamps, and capacitor banks) disintegration, laser target and elements of the optical train may shatter, chemical laser reactants or other laser gases, ignition of dust collected in ventilation systems serving laser processes.

Required preventative measures: proper and timely maintenance of system, protective housing enclosure surrounding internal components, enclosure (or equivalent protection) of laser target and susceptible elements of optical train.


Physical Agents (4)

Mechanical Hazards Associated with Robotics Potential hazards: damage to protective housing and beam

delivery system, misalignment of beam, pinning/pinching of personnel.

Protective measures: may include surface interlock mats, interlocked light curtains, non-rigid walls and barriers.

Consult REM for further information. Noise:

Certain lasers (e.g. pulsed excimers), and/or work environment may require noise control.

Consult REM for further information.


Chemical Agents Laser Generated Air Contaminants (LGACs)

Primary Factors: target material, cover gas, and the beam irradiance.

Lower limit of occurrence appears at an irradiance level of approximately 107 W/cm2.

Possible carcinogenic toxic, and noxious airborne contaminants (list in Appendix F, ANSI Z136.1 – 2007).

LSO must ensure industrial hygiene characterizations of exposure to LGACs are conducted properly and refer to Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs) supplied by the manufacturer.

If necessary, LSO may require additional control methods.


Chemical Agents (2)

Compressed Gases E.g.: chlorine, fluorine, hydrogen chloride, hydrogen fluoride. All compressed gases with a Hazardous Material Information System (HMIS) or

NFPA Diamond with a health, flammability, or reactivity rating of 3 or 4 shall be properly contained (i.e in an approved and appropriately exhausted gas cabinet that is alarmed with sensors to indicate potential leakage conditions).

SOPs shall be developed for safely handling compressed gases. Sample of associated safety problems:

Free-standing cylinder not isolated from personnel. Failure to protect open cylinders (i.e. regulator disconnected) from atmosphere and

contaminants. No remote shutoff valve or provisions for purging gas before disconnect or reconnect. Labeled hazardous gas cylinders not maintained in appropriate exhausted enclosures. Gases of different hazards (toxic, corrosive, flammable, oxidizer, inert, high pressure,

and cryogenic) not stored separately in accordance with OSHA and Compressed Gas Association requirements.

F lammability

R eac tivityH ealth

S pec ial


Chemical Agents (3)

Laser Dyes and Solvents Fluorescent compounds which, when in solution with certain solvents,

form a lasing medium for dye lasers. Some are highly toxic or carcinogenic. Dye handling must employ special care (see

Purdue University Chemical Hygiene Plan) Dye lasers containing 100 ml or greater of flammable liquids shall be in

conformance with NFPA 30 and 45, and the NEC Article 500. All dyes shall be prepared in a laboratory fume hood. Dye pumps and reservoirs should be placed in secondary containment

vessels to minimize leakage and spills in conformance with NFPA 115. Assist Gases

May be used to produce an inert atmosphere, remove material from beam-interaction site, and minimize deposition on components.

May appear in some types of LGACs and spectral distribution of plasma radiation.

http://www.purdue.edu/rem/home/booklets/CHP2010.pdf


Chemical Agents (4) Control Measures: Engineering controls preferred

Exhaust Ventilation avoid recirculation of LGACs. use enclosing hoods, if possible. designed in accordance with ACGIH and ANSI Z9.2.

Respiratory Protection for brief exposures or interim control measure. If used, must comply with 29 CFR 1910.134 (OSHA).

Process Isolation physical barriers, master-slave manipulators, or remote control apparatus. certain applications (e.g. biomedical applications) require disinfection/sterilization of equipment

after use. Sensors and Alarms

Shall be installed in hazardous gas cabinets and other locations as appropriate (including exhaust ventilation ducts).

Should be used for toxic and corrosive chemical agents (e.g. halogens), and be able to detect the hazardous gas in a mixture of emitted gases.

Must be properly shielded to minimize susceptibility to electromagnetic interference (EMI).


Biological Agents LGACs: may be generated when a high-

powered lasers interacts with biological tissue.

Infectious Materials: may survive beam irradiation and become airborne.

Consult ANSI Z136.3, Appendix F.


Human Factors Ergonomics

E.g.: workstation layout, worker-machine interface, handling techniques, area illumination, visual distractions.

Limited Work Space There must be sufficient room for personnel to turn

around an maneuver freely, without trip/fall hazards (e.g. wires or cables on floor).

Work Patterns Unusual or long hours may affect worker alertness.


Human Factors (2)

Disposal Laser Disposal: donation, remove all means or activation

and disposed, destruction Laser Waste Disposal: waste disposal shall conform with

Purdue University disposal requirements (see REM’s Hazardous Material Management webpage)

Chillers May be employed to reduce heat load produced by lasers. Chiller types: conductivity-cooled, air-cooled, or cooled

with a closed loop chiller. If using chilled water, filter the incoming water to ensure

that minerals and particulate matter are removed to minimize damage to equipment.

http://www.purdue.edu/rem/hmm/hmm.htm

Module 5Laser and Laser System Classifications

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 1: General

Laser Classifications Class 1: exempt from control measures or other

surveillance, considered incapable of producing damaging radiation levels during operation. Former Class IIa lasers are considered to be in this category.

Class 1M: exempt from any control measures other than to prevent potentially hazardous optically aided viewing, considered incapable of producing hazardous exposure conditions during normal operation unless the beam is viewed with an optical instrument.


Laser Classifications (2)

Both Class 2 and Class 2M laser emit only in the visible spectrum (400 – 700 nm wavelengths). In the visible spectrum, the human aversion response (a reflex action of blinking and looking away from a strong optical stimulus) occurs when the eye becomes exposed; the response time occurs within 0.25 seconds.

Class 2 lasers are considered harmless for accidental viewing based on the power level and protection of the human aversion response.

Class 2M lasers are considered potentially hazardous if viewed with certain optical aids. For instance, a focusing lens may produce a magnified intensity to which the eye could be exposed. The Laser Safety Officer should evaluate a Class 2M laser or laser system to determine what hazard controls may be necessary for the safe use of the laser.



Class 3 (medium power): may be hazardous for direct or specular reflections (normally not a diffuse reflection or fire hazard). 2 subclasses. Class 3R: potentially hazardous under some direct and

specular reflection viewing conditions (if eye is focused and stable, highly improbable). Not a fire or diffuse reflection hazard.

Class 3B: viewing hazard under direct or specular reflection conditions, normally not a diffuse reflection or fire hazard



Class 4 (high power): Hazard to eye or skin from the direct beam, and May be a diffuse reflection or fire hazard May also be a source of laser generated air contaminants

(LGACs) and hazardous plasma radiation. For lasers not classified by manufacturer, or where

class level may change because of alteration of engineering control measures, the Laser Safety Officer (LSO) may classify

Laser classifications are in Arabic Numerals; Roman Numerals are no longer accepted.

Module 6Control MeasuresGeneral RulesAccident TrendsOperation, Maintenance, and ServiceUnattended UseLaser Modification

Engineering Controls Administrative & Procedural

Controls Special Considerations Protective Equipment Area Warning Signs & Equipment

Labels

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures

General Rules Use minimum laser radiation required for the

application. Maintain beam height at a level other that the

position of the user’s eye standing or sitting. Prefer engineering controls, however must

have administrative and procedural controls.


Accident Trends Reported incidents related to lasers are most often

associated with: Unanticipated eye exposure during alignment Misaligned optics and upwardly directed beams Available eye protection not used Equipment malfunction Improper methods of handling high voltage Intentional exposure of unprotected personnel Operators unfamiliar with laser equipment Lack of protection for non-beam hazards


Accident Trends (2)

Reported incidents related to lasers are most often associated with (cont’d): Improper restoration of equipment following service Eyewear worn not appropriate for laser in use Unanticipated eye/skin exposure during laser usage Inhalation of laser generated air contaminants and/or

viewing laser generated plasmas Fires resulting from the ignition of materials Eye or skin injury of photochemical origin Failure to follow SOPs


Operation, Maintenance, and Service Lasers are classified under conditions of intended

use. Maintenance and Service functions should be

delineated in the service manuals of the laser. Consult with manufacturer for special use

conditions/service of laser. Consult REM Laser Section for guidance on service

procedures.

http://www.purdue.edu/rem/laser/laser.htm

http://www.purdue.edu/rem/laser/laser.htm


Unattended Use Operate lasers under direct supervision or control of an

authorized user – operator shall maintain visual surveillance of conditions for safe use and terminate laser operation in the event of malfunction or other unsafe condition.

Unattended operation may ONLY be allowed under LSO-approved control measures are in place; control measures MUST provide adequate protection so that unprotected spectators shall not receive eye or skin exposures that exceed the MPE limits. Service Personnel Emergency Personnel Administrative/Other Personnel Students/General Public


Laser Modification LSO may reclassify a modified laser. May necessitate recertification,

reclassification, and compliance reporting under Federal Laser Product Performance Standard (FLPPS).


Engineering Controls Protective Housing – Require interlocks and appropriate

labels. Service Access Panels – Shall only be removed by service

personnel; interlocked or removal tool and warning label required.

Key Control – Master switch that can initiate and terminate system operation shall be operated by a key or coded access. The key (or code) shall only be accessible to authorized personnel.

Viewing Windows, Display Screens, and Collecting Optics –shall incorporate suitable means to maintain the exposure to below MPE.

Beam Paths –separate requirements for fully open, limited open, and enclosed.


Engineering Controls (2)

Remote Interlock Connector – Class 3B should and Class 4 shall have this control to eliminate accessible radiation to below the MPE

Beam Stop or Attenuator - Class 3B should and Class 4 shall have this permanently attached control to eliminate accessible radiation to below the MPE when laser output is not required.

Warning Area Warning Signs and Activation Warnings - Class 3B and Class 4 areas shall be posted with the appropriate signage, both for beam and non-beam hazards.

Activation Warning Devices - Class 3B should and Class 4 shall use this control during activation or startup.



Indoor Laser Controlled Area – Analysis shall be performed by the LSO Requirements for Class 4 more strict than Class 3B. Emergency Conditions – For emergencies, there shall be a clearly

marked “Emergency Stop” available for deactivating the laser or reducing output to below the MPE.

Entryway Controls – Class 4 laser areas shall have one of the following Non-Defeatable: for deactivation of laser or reducing output to below

MPE in the event of unexpected entry into laser controlled area. Defeatable: only if clearly evident that there is no laser radiation hazard

at the point of entry. Procedural: only when safety latches or interlocks are not feasible or are

inappropriate (e.g. Surgery).



Outdoor control measures - Lasers are not to be used outdoors without evaluation and approval by LSO.

Temporary Laser Controlled Areas – in case of service or other conditions where housing, panels are removed and MPE is exceeded

Controlled Operation Equipment Labels – in accordance with FLPPS or IEC

60825-1 Housing, Control Panel (if separated from housing by more than 2 meters), and Long Distance Beam Conduit (at intervals of 3 meters)


Administrative and Procedural Controls Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) – shall be written and

maintained with the laser(s) for reference regarding operation and alignment, maintenance and service, emergency for personnel injury and fire, and all applicable non-beam hazards (including electrical safety).

Output Emission Limitations – LSO may require if excessive power or radiant energy is deemed excessive.

Education and Training – required, must cover topics required by ANSI, records must be maintained.

Authorized Personnel – LPI authorizes, training and registration are conditions of authorization.



Administrative and Procedural Controls (2)

Alignment Procedures Spectators – Shall not be permitted unless

LPI has approved, Spectators are informed of the hazards by authorized

users, and Appropriate protective measures are taken.

Service Personnel – Only those with the education and safety training commensurate with the laser contained within protective housing. Typically, certified technicians from the manufacturer.

http://www.purdue.edu/rem/laser/lasersops.htm




Special Considerations General Public – Class 3B and 4 require a laser light

show variance issued by the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH), other requirements.

Optical Fiber Transmission Systems – considered enclosed within cable, if disconnecting where MEP is exceeded, NHZ requirements implemented.

Robotic Installations – working envelope included in NHZ.


Protective Equipment General – enclosure of beam is the preferred method

of control. Eyewear –

Required within NHZ for Class 3B and 4 lasers Non-beam hazards may exist which require additional eye

protection (ANSI Z87.1) LSO shall determine the OD for eyewear based on laser

specifications. Shall be labeled with the OD and its corresponding

wavelength. Shall be cleaned and inspected to ensure proper condition.

Only use eyewear that is in proper working condition.


Protective Equipment (2)

Window Protection – within NHZ shall be provided with an appropriate filter, barrier, or screen with reduces laser radiation to below all applicable MPE.

Barriers and Curtains – material shall be selected to withstand direct and diffuse reflection of beam, must not support combustion or release toxic fumes upon laser exposure.

Labeling of Protective Equipment – Shall be permanently labeled with: Eyewear – OD and corresponding wavelength. Protective Windows – OD and corresponding wavelength, exposure time, and

conditions under which protection is afforded. Collecting Optics Filters – OD and corresponding wavelength, threshold limit

(TL) and corresponding exposure time, and conditions under which protection is afforded.

Barriers (unless integral part of laser system) – TL and corresponding exposure time, and conditions under which protection is afforded.

Viewports and Films (unless integral part of laser system) – OD and corresponding spectral region which shall be provided by the manufacturer.


Protective Equipment (3)

Skin Protection - mostly applicable to Class 4 UV lasers LSO shall determine if skin protection is needed.

best achieved through engineering controls Other Protective Equipment – respirators,

local exhaust ventilation, fire extinguishers, and hearing protection may be required.


Area Warning Signs and Equipment Labels Design – In accordance with ANSI Z535. Symbols – 2 accepted symbols:

Laser Symbol Design: ANSI Z535: sunburst pattern IEC 60825-1: equilateral triangle with sunburst pattern

Safety Alert Symbol: equilateral triangle surrounding an exclamation mark – must conform with ANSI Z535.3.

Signal-Words Danger: Class 3R, 3B, and 4; OD and corresponding wavelength must

be on sign. Caution: Class 2 and 2M. Notice: Temporary laser controlled areas (e.g. service).

DA N G E R !

L A S E R R A DIA T IO NE xamples of P ertinent Information:A void eye or sk in exposure to d irec t or sc attered rad iation.Invis ib le L aser R ad iation.K noc k before enter ing .If light is on:-Do not enter if not an author ized laser user for this p rojec t.-L aser p rotec tive eyew ear is required upon entry.

L as er T ype, E mitted W avelength and O ptic alD ens ity, P uls e D uration (if app lic ab le), andMaximum P ow er/E nergy O utput

C las s 4 L A S E R

Area Warning Sign Example


Area Warning Signs and Equipment Labels (2)

Pertinent Sign Information – requirements: Appropriate signal word. Precautionary instructions or protective action. Laser type or emitted wavelength, pulse duration, and maximum

output. Laser classification. Conspicuously displayed in best locations to warn onlookers.

Pertinent Equipment Label Information – Different requirements for different classes, conspicuously displayed.

Existing Signs – Signs and labels prepared in accordance with previous revisions are acceptable.

Module 7Laser Safety Project InformationFormsPersonnel Responsibilities & Requirements

Project Approval Process Forms must be completed and approved by

LSO, LSC Form LU-1: Project Summary & Evaluation for Use of

Class 3B and Class 4 Lasers and Laser Systems(New/Amend Project Form), with SOPs attached.

Form LF-1: Laser Facility Approval Request (New Lab Application)

Form LS-1: Laser Registration Form LU-2: Application to Use Class 3B and Class 4

Lasers and Laser Systems (New User Application)

http://www.purdue.edu/rem/home/forms/LU-1.doc


http://www.purdue.edu/rem/home/forms/LF-1.doc

http://www.purdue.edu/rem/home/forms/LS-1.doc


Project Approval Process (2)

Training must be completed by all restricted and unrestricted users. The LPI is not exempt.

LSO must perform an assessment of the facility.

LPI will ensure all required engineering, administrative, and procedural control measures are in place.


Restricted vs Unrestricted Users Restricted Users

Must always be under direct supervision of an authorized, unrestricted user

May never work alone with the laser unit Not required to submit an LU-2 form or complete

the classroom session Must receive unit specific training on the laser

being used Must complete retraining every two years

Restricted vs Unrestricted Users Unrestricted Users

Must submit an LU-2 form and complete the classroom session

Must receive unit specific training on the laser being used

Once all registration and training requirements are fulfilled, unrestricted users may work with the laser without supervision

Must complete retraining every two years

New User Information New users can only be added to approved laser projects. New users must:

Fulfill all training requirements Submit a completed LU-2 to the LSO

LU-2 forms are only required for unrestricted users Restricted users are not required to complete an LU-2

form, however, they must still gain approval from the LPI to use the laser system

Comply with the requirements established for the laser safety project and the Laser Safety Manual.


http://www.purdue.edu/rem/home/booklets/laserguide.pdf

Module 8Facility and Personnel ResponsibilitiesLaser Safety Program & ProvisionsPersonnel Responsibilities & Requirements


Laser Safety Program Purdue University, as a facility utilizing Class

3B and Class 4 lasers, shall establish and maintain an adequate program for the control of laser hazards.

Class 3B and Class 4 laser systems: overseen by Purdue University Laser Safety Program, all users must complete required training.

Purdue University policy established by Executive Memorandum No. D-2

http://www.purdue.edu/policies/pages/facilities_lands/d_2.html


Laser Safety Program Provisions LSO has authority and responsibility to

evaluate laser hazards, monitor and enforce compliance with required standards and regulations, and perform other specific duties and responsibilities.

Education of authorized personnel in the safety use of lasers and laser systems.

Application of adequate protective measures.


Laser Safety Program Provisions (2)

Incident investigation. Appropriate medical examination and

surveillance. Formation of a Laser Safety Committee when

the number, hazards, complexity, and/or diversity of laser activities warrants.



Personnel Responsibilities Establish the safe use of the laser or laser system that is used. Inform LSO of any fabrication, altering, or installation of a

Class 3B or Class 4 laser or laser system. Comply with the requirements as set forth by the ANSI

Standard Z136.1 (2007) and Purdue University Laser Safety Guidelines.

Different expectations for different personnel types Laser Principal Investigator (LPI) Employees working with lasers Other personnel




Personnel Requirements Laser Principal Investigator (LPI)

Issue appropriate instruction and training materials on laser hazards and their control to all personnel who may work with lasers that are operated within supervisor’s jurisdiction.

Not permit the operation of a laser unless there is adequate control of laser hazards to employees, visitors, and the general public.

Ensure all individuals working have submitted a completed LU-2 form, including LPI

Ensure LU-1 (that must be submitted to LSO) has all authorized individuals listed. Subsequent users may be listed with all required information either as an LU-1 addendum, or by written documentation to LSO.


Personnel Requirements Laser Principal Investigator (LPI) – cont’d

For any known or suspected accident relating to a laser under his/her authority, enact appropriate response plan, which includes notification of the LSO.

If necessary, assist in obtaining appropriate medical attention for any employee involved in a laser accident.

Not permit operation of a new or modified Class 3B or Class 4 laser under his/her authority without LSO approval.

Shall submit plans for Class 3B and Class 4 laser installations/modifications of installations to the LSO for review.

Shall be familiar with the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for each Class 3B and Class 4 laser under his/her authority, and ensure that that they are provided to all users of such lasers.


Personnel Requirements Employees working with lasers

Not energize or work with or near a laser unless authorized to do so by the laser’s supervisor.

Comply with Purdue University Laser Safety Guidelines, LSO and LPI safety rules and procedures.

Inform his/her LPI of any known or suspected accident involving a laser under their LPI’s jurisdiction. If the LPI is not available, notify the LSO.

Module 9Medical Surveillance Practices General Information

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 6: Medical Examinations

General Information Medical surveillance must be performed as soon as possible,

but no later than 48 hours of a suspected or actual laser-induced injury.

Medical surveillance is encouraged for personnel using Class 3B and 4 lasers; surveillance may be ophthalmologic and/or dermatologic

Dependent upon employee category (i.e. incidental personnel or laser personnel), the surveillance may be visual acuity or baseline as determined by ocular history.

Frequency – should be performed prior to participation in laser work; shall be performed following suspected laser injury; periodic examinations are not required.

Module 10Required Training General Information

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 5: Education and Training

General Information Required for any employee routinely working with

(unrestricted users) or potentially exposed to (restricted and unrestricted users) Class 3B or Class 4 laser radiation.

Refresher training (online) is required at 2 year intervals. Trainer Qualifications – LSO or individual with training

skills and knowledge including knowledge of lasers, laser safety concepts, and laser safety standards.

LSO – multiple requirements; specialized training. User Training – Where appropriate, shall include CPR

training and safety procedures for applicable non-beam hazards.

Training records must be maintained by LSO regarding trainee information, date, and topics covered.

Module 11Consequences of Non-Compliance General Information

General Information The LSO has the authority to suspend, restrict, or

terminate the operation of a laser system if the LSO deems that controls are not adequate.

LPIs, authorized users, and/or associated personnel found in non-compliance of the Purdue Laser Safety Program and/or applicable governmental regulations may be subject to review by the Laser Safety Committee, at a minimum.

Penalties for non-compliance shall be determined by the Laser Safety Committee and/or other applicable bodies of authority.

Module 12Emergency Procedures Personnel Injury Fire

Incidents/Emergencies PERSONNEL INJURY

Turn off the laser system with the “Emergency Button” or power switch.

If injured personnel require medical assistance, don appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE, i.e. gloves), and provide minimum assistance, as needed. Ensure someone remains with the victim until medical personnel arrive.

Contact medical personnel (call 911). Inform them of the accident and that lasers are involved.

Contact REM (49-46371). Complete incident report.

Incidents/Emergencies FIRE

Sound fire alarm. Contact fire department (call 911). Inform them of the

incident. If fire has gone out, call the Purdue University Fire

Department (PUFD) at the non-emergency number (49-46919)

Turn off the laser system with the “Emergency Button” or power switch.

Evacuate area. Contact REM (49-46371). Complete incident report.

Contact Information Zach Tribbett, Laser Safety Officer

494-1478 [email protected]

Jerry Gibbs, Laser Training and Authorization Information 494-0207 [email protected]

Other Radiation Safety Staff: 494-6371

Test and Classroom Session The link to the examination is included on the next slide. Once you have

completed the test, you will receive an email indicating whether or not you have passed. If you pass, and have indicated that you wish to become an

unrestricted user, the confirmation email you receive will include a link to the online registration for the classroom session.

If you pass, and have indicated that you wish to become a restricted user, you will receive a confirmation email detailing the responsibilities of a restricted user. An email will also be sent to your LPI notifying them that you wish to join their project. You must provide your LPI’s correct email address. The email will only be sent if you pass. They will not be notified of a failed exam.

Test Complete the test indicated below. You must have a

minimum score of 75% to pass. Your results will be sent to you through email, and,

if you have passed, will be the documentation you would use to prove certification for renewal.

Click here to begin the test.

https://purdue.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_3Vm4KuhPBtJwrXu

Documents

Laser Safety Training: Online Segment Radiological and Environmental Management Purdue University with information from ANSI Z136.1 - 2007