Laser Safety
Lasers emit light through optical amplification, and are used for many purposes, including medical, cutting, measurements, and communication.
Hazards of Lasers
Eye damage – the primary hazard of working with lasers is the potential for eye damage. When a laser beam strikes the eye, it can become concentrated onto the retina at the back of the eye. This can cause damage ranging from temporary effects, such as dark spots in vision, flash-blindness to long term effects including permanent blindness, blurry vision, or other permanent visual problems.
Skin burns and fire – Lasers can burn skin, some sever enough to leave permanent scars. They may also be able to ignite combustible materials.
Other physical hazards – Many lasers use high voltage power sources. Because of this, there is a hazard of electrical shock. This can cause serious burns, long-term damage, or death. Other systems use high-pressure arc lamps, which can cause explosions. Lasers also often have many cords, which can create a tripping hazard.
Inhalation hazards – Some lasers use toxic gases or dyes as part of their systems. If you are using lasers to cut or burn material, it can generate air contaminants that may also be harmful.
Laser Classification
Optical instruments that focus light make lasers more dangerous. Reflections from mirror-like surfaces can be dangerous as well.
Laser Classification
| Class | Eye Hazard | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class I | No possibility of harm. | Very low power or fully enclosed | CD player |
| Class II | Damage possible but unlikely because of blink reflex | Output power < 1 mW. Staring into the beam for a long period could cause damage | Laser pointer or barcode scanner |
| Class IIIa/ IIIr | Damage after 2 min of eye exposure | Output power < 5 mW | Alignment laser, garage door sensor |
| Class IIIb | Permanent eye damage in < 1/100th of a second | 5mW < output power < 500 mW or pulsed | Research lasers, e.g., spectrometers |
| Class IV | Severe permanent damage without optics in short exposures | “High-powered” Output power > 500 mW or pulsed | Used in research, industry and medicine |
Class IIIb or IV Requirements
New laser systems should be evaluated by the University Laser Safety Officer (David Paulu (612) 626-3293. SOPs are needed to identify appropriate eye protection, signage and for any laser activities, including alignment and cutting.
Signage
All labs with Class IIIb or IV lasers must post appropriate laser signage at entrances. Best practice is to also post additional signs to indicate when the laser is powered up or active, so others entering the area are aware that it is in active use.
Training
- Users must complete the General Laser Safety online training course available through Radiation Safety.
- Non-users should be trained to knock on the door of all laser spaces before entering
Eye Protection
- All laser users must wear the eye protection specified by the signage, SOPs and training specific to the laser you will be using. Do not assume the protection provided by the laser vendor is the proper type. The correct type is determined by the wavelength, viewing conditions, and the power/energy of the laser.
- All eye protection (ANSI Z136) must be labeled with the optical density and wavelength that it protects against
- Note: Different lasers may need different types of eyewear. Even the same laser can require different types of glasses, if it operates at more than one wavelength. You may not be able to use the same glasses you used with another laser, or in another lab.
Work Area
- Remove all reflective materials. Check yourself for any rings, watches, earrings, or other shiny/reflective jewelry Check the optical table itself for laminated paper, metal parts, glassware, goggles, or tools.
- Remove combustible materials that could be ignited by the laser like paper and cardboard.
- Check all controls are working properly. This includes any safety interlocks, beam enclosures/covers, beam stops, and other safety mechanisms.
- The laser beam should be positioned below eye level for people who are standing or seated.
- All elements on the optical table must be secured. If the table is bumped, or something is dropped on it the beam may become misdirected potentially causing harm.
Using Lasers
- Always check your eye protection is the correct optical density for the laser wavelength you are using. Do not rely on the lens color.
- Move carefully when adjusting any part of the laser setup during work to avoid misalignment.
- Active adjustment of the laser’s position or Alignment is the most common cause of laser injuries. Use a lower class laser or the lowest power settings possible and viewing cards, IR viewers or burn paper.