A written Laser Safety Program is required for any organization using a Class 3B or 4 laser or laser system, according to ANSI Z136.1 "Safe Use of Lasers" standard. Laser Safety Programs is one of the first items addressed in the standard (Section 1.3), and it's usually the first question a knowledgeable OSHA inspector will [...]
Well controlled laser beam hazards are critical. In addition to laser beam hazards, laser non-beam hazards must be considered. Mechanical Hazards Electrical Hazards Smoke and Fumes Process Radiation Let’s take a brief look at each of these laser non-beam hazards. Mechanical Hazards Mechanical hazards are common in industrial laser areas. Industrial laser personnel must often [...]
Times have changed rapidly in the past 6-months with Covid-19 effecting every aspect of our lives both personally and professionally. Conferences, training sessions, meetings and gatherings are all being done virtually instead of in person. This has presented both challenges and opportunities to take a fresh look at how things are getting done efficiently and [...]
When ANSI Z136.1 “Safe Use of Lasers” was revised in 2014, one of the most significant changes was laser sign design. Over the past 20+ years I’ve visited many facilities ranging from universities to industrial plants and medical facilities. I find more often than not laser signs are not compliant with ANSI. So – here’s [...]
I was having a conversation with a colleague last week and the topic of OSHA came up regarding onsite visits and laser safety. An OSHA inspector may be visiting you for any number of reasons and may notice you are using lasers at your facility – a known hazard. OSHA has been known to cite [...]
Having been involved in laser safety and laser safety training for 25 years, I've met a lot of Laser Safety Officers. Most of these LSOs are newly appointed and have little or no experience with laser safety. More often than not, one of the first questions I get is "What the heck am I supposed [...]
ANSI Z136.1 "Safe Use of Lasers" standard states that an organization using lasers has the fundamental responsibility to ensure their safe use. A laser safety program needs to be in place with established control measures - especially for Class 3B and 4 lasers. Training for end users as well as a trained Laser Safety Officer [...]