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Laser Safety

EHS recommends that individuals using lasers set up and operate laser facilities to meet the laser safety guidelines established by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard ANSI Z136.1-2007, American National Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers.

Registering Lasers

All users of lasers and laser sy​​stems are required to register their Class 3b or Class 4 lasers with EHS. Complete the Registration Form​ and submit electronically to EHS or the form may be printed and the hardcopy forwarded to EHS.  PIs /Supervisors must submit a Laser Status Update Formif a registered laser is removed to storage or relocated to a different room.

Training

Individuals who work with Class 3 or Class 4 lasers must participate in the laser safety training provided by EHS.  Included in this category are all individuals who utilize the Calcium Imaging Research Support Laboratory, the W.S. Live Cell Imaging Facility and the Confocal Facility.  The training course will cover:

  • fundamentals of laser operation
  • classification of lasers and laser systems
  • biological effects of laser radiation
  • non-radiation hazards
  • personal protective equipment and control measures

Contact EHS for more information or to get enrolled in the Laser Safety Program.

Laser Transfer/Removal

Class 3b and Class 4 lasers cannot be sold, donated, transferred or relocated to another researcher, facility or institution without prior EHS approval. Contact the laser safety officer for more information.

Resources

RFUMS Laser Safety Manual​​

OSHA Laser Safety Guidance, Resources and Compliance