LASER SAFETY TRAINING

Medisurg Eye Equipment Specialists

Purpose

To communicate a necessary understanding of the

laser system and relevant safety protocols.

These slides go into some depth, and should be

reviewed as needed.
What is a laser?

Laser System Characteristics: a laser and its

associated electrical, mechanical, and optical
components.
UV lamps, light boxes are NOT lasers
Light
Amplification by
Stimulated
Emission
Radiation
Electromagnetic Radiation

Photons are “particles” of

radiation
Photons vary in their
energy levels and
wavelength
Higher energy photons
have shorter wavelengths
Visible Light
Visible light contains photons with many
wavelengths - “white” light actually has all colors.
Laser Light vs Visible Light
Lasers produce beams of Visible light, such as
light that are coherent sunlight, is incoherent
and monochromatic and polychromatic
Coherent means the Incoherent means the
photons are all moving in photons are moving in
the same direction different directions
Monochromatic means Polychromatic means the
the photons all have the light has photons of
same wavelength multiple wavelengths
Laser Light vs Visible Light
Light as a Wave

4 main properties
Wavelength
Amplitude
Velocity
Frequency
Light as a Wave
Wavelength
The distance (nm) from one wave peak
to the next. Determines light’s color.
Light as a Wave
Amplitude
Equal to half the distance (nm) between
a wave’s peak and trough. Directly
proportional to a wave’s power.
Light as a Wave
Velocity
A universal constant of about 186,300
miles/second (speed of light).
Light as a Wave
Frequency
The number of wave peaks that pass a
certain point in one second. Indirectly
proportional to wavelength.
Laser Characteristics

Monochromatic: either a single wavelength or a

relatively small range of wavelengths.
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.
Stimulated Emission
Occurs when the electrons of an atom
interact with an electromagnetic wave.

Photons are generated with the same

characteristics as those in the wave.
Laser Components

Gain Medium inside an Optical Cavity

Pumping Energy Source
High Reflector
Output Coupler
Laser Beam
Laser Components
2.

1. 5.

3. 4.
1. Gain Medium inside an Optical Cavity

2. Pumping Energy Source

3. High Reflector

4. Output Coupler

5. Laser Beam
Laser Components

The gain medium is a substance that

resides inside an optical cavity.
The optical cavity allows photons to
reflect back and forth off the reflective
surfaces at the end.
Laser Components

The output coupler is semi-transparent

and allows a portion of the light to
escape.
The laser beam itself is comprised of
photons of similar direction, phase,
wavelength, and frequency.
Laser Classification

Portion of the spectrum: whether the

energy produced is infrared, ultraviolet,
or in the visible range.
Activity of the beam: the beam can be
produced continuously or pulsed at
various frequencies.
Q-Switch

Provides laser pulses of

an extremely short time
duration.
Laser Classification

The lasers just mentioned are just some

of the many variations that exist.
A popular version in ophthalmology is
the Nd: Yag laser. It can be operated in
both continuous and pulsed-fire mode,
with a beam of ~1064 nm.
 Classification - UV Spectrum

Argon Krypton Krypton Xenon Helium Xenon

Gain Nitrogen
fluoride chloride fluoride chloride cadmium fluoride

λ (nm) 193 222 248 308 325 337 351

Classification - IR Spectrum

Ti Hydrogen Helium Carbon

Gain Nd: Yag Erbium
Sapphire fluoride neon dioxide

λ (nm) 800 936, 1319 1504 2700 840, 3390 9600

Classification - Visible Spectrum

Helium Copper Helium Rohodamine

Gain Krypton Argon
cadmium vapor neon 6G Dye
476, 528, 543, 594,
λ (nm) 441 488, 514 510, 570 570, 650
568, 647 610, 633
Laser Safety Hazards
and Protocols for Safe Handling
Laser Beam Hazards

Specular reflection occurs when a

beam reflects off a mirror-like surface -
beam retains its full power.
Diffuse reflection occurs off of a dull
surface, only some wavelengths are
reflected.
Specular vs. Diffuse Reflection
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.
Criteria for Exposures of Eye
and Skin
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
Laser Beam Hazards
Safety Protocols

Ensure that both patients and techs

have appropriate eye protection
(goggles, glasses, etc).
Goggles that provide complete
protection are recommended.
Laser Beam Hazards
Safety Protocols

Check the particular laser unit for

manufacturer recommendations on
optical density (OD) of protective wear.
Should be able to resist both specular
and diffuse beams.
Laser Beam Hazards
EYE TISSUES
Laser Beam Hazards
Safety Protocols

Thermal: charring, edema, hemorrhage

Photochemical (blue light and UV):
Production of toxins and biochemical
changes which may cause
inflammation, lesions and lens opacities
Laser Beam Hazards
Safety Protocols

Photoacoustic (short intense pulses):

explosive forces due to expanding
gases
 Laser Beam Hazards
Safety Protocols

Lower MPE (Maximum Permissible Exposure)

limits may be required when normal protective
mechanisms such as eye movement and pupil
constriction are hindered. IE, individuals who
have pupil dilation performed will not have the
natural defenses of the constricting iris which
could limit that amount of radiation entering their
eye.
Non-Beam Hazards of Lasers

❑
General Information
❑
Physical Agents
❑
Chemical Agents
❑
Biological Agents
❑
Human Use
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.

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

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

Physical Agents

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.

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

Physical Agents
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.

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

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.

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 7: Non-Beam Hazards
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 (Laser Safety Officer) must ensure industrial hygiene

characterizations of exposure to LGACs are conducted
properly and refer to Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)
supplied by the manufacturer.
ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 7: Non-Beam Hazards
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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 7: Non-Beam Hazards
Human Factors (2)
Disposal

Laser Disposal: donation, remove all means or activation and

disposed, destruction)

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

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 1: General

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.
ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 1: General
Laser Classifications (3)
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

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 1: General

Laser Classifications (4)
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.
ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 1: General
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.

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures

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 protectionANSI
forZ136.1-2007
non-beam hazards
Section 4: Control Measures
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

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures

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.

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures

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.
ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures
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.

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures

Engineering Controls (3)

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.

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures

Engineering Controls (4)

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
ANSI (at intervals
Z136.1-2007 Section of 3 meters)
4: Control Measures
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.

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures

Administrative and Procedural Controls

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.

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures

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.

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures

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.
ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures
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 ANSI
region which
Z136.1-2007 shall
Section be provided
4: Control Measures 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.

ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures

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).
ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures
Area Warning Sign Example

DANGER!
LASER RADIATION
Examples of Pertinent Information:
Avoid eye or skin exposure to direct or scattered radiation.
Invisible Laser Radiation.
Knock before entering.
If light is on:
-Do not enter if not an authorized laser user for this project.
-Laser protective eyewear is required upon entry.

Laser Type, Emitted Wavelength and Optical

Density, Pulse Duration (if applicable), and
Maximum Power/Energy Output
Class 4 LASER
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.
ANSI Z136.1-2007 Section 4: Control Measures