Quick Start Guide
Chapter 16: Laser Safety

Program: Safe Use of Lasers
Revised 04/18
URL:www.lbl.gov/ehs/pub3000/CH16.html
Revision Record: http://www.lbl.gov/ehs/pub3000/Pub3000Changes.html

Who needs to know about these requirements?

The requirements for the use of Class 3B and Class 4 lasers and laser systems apply to Berkeley Lab employees, affiliates, visitors, and subcontractors who:

• Intend to use Class 3B or Class 4 lasers or laser systems
• Perform service or open beam alignment on Class 3B or Class 4 lasers contained within Class 1 products

Why?

Unsafe handling of lasers may result in:

• Eye or skin injuries to individuals
• Damage to equipment
• Programmatic work suspensions

What you need to do before performing work:

1. Define work/protocols.
2. Analyze hazards. Perform risk assessment.
• Workers who use Class 3B or Class 4 lasers are required to analyze hazards in accordance with PUB-3000, Chapter 16
3. Develop controls for laser exposure hazard mitigation.
• Complete training. See Work Process E, Training Requirements, for laser operator training requirements.
• Wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for potential laser exposure. For more information, see Work Process B.10, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
• Depending on your tasks, you may need to use alignment eyewear. This is only allowed with Laser Safety Officer (LSO) review and approval. For more information, see Work Process B.10.3, Alignment Eyewear.
• Engineering controls for use of lasers will vary with individual laser setups. Contact the LSO for advice and suggestions on controls.

Where to find out more:

• Chapter 16 (Laser Safety), LBNL Health and Safety Manual (PUB-3000)

Whom to contact for help:

• For assistance with laser-safety applications and controls, LBNL staff and affiliates should contact:
• Greta Toncheva, LSO: 510-495-2544 (Desk) and 510-604-8476 (Mobile)
• Robert Fairchild, Deputy LSO: 510-495-2278 (Desk) and 510-926-2051 (Mobile)