Laser Safety
The term “LASER” is an acronym representing Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The properties of this non-ionizing radiation allow for a range of applications and as such their use is widespread across Carleton University campus. However, they pose significant hazards including eye injury, burns, fire and exposure to hazardous fumes and therefore control measures must be in place in order to mitigate these associated risks.
| Classification | Characteristics | Hazards | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 & 1M | Low power and or higher powered fully enclosed beam | Incapable of causing injury during normal operation | CD and DVD players, laser printers and confocal microscopes |
| 2 & 2M | Low power; Visible (400-700nm); CW power <1mW | Possible hazard if eye is stable and focused; low probability of injury | HeNe laser with a maximum power <1mW |
| 3R | Visible or invisible; CW power <5mW | Possible hazard if eye is stable and focused; low probability of injury | Visible CW HeNe lasers with a maximum power >1mW and <5 |
| 3B | Visible or invisible; CW power <500mW | Exposure to direct beam and specular reflections are potential eye hazards | Visible CW HeNe lasers with a maximum power >5mW and <500mW |
| 4 | Visible or invisible, CW power >500mW, fire hazard if >10W, laser generated air contaminants | Exposure to direct beam, specular and diffuse reflections are potential eye and skin hazards | CO2 laser with maximum power >500mW |
Laser Safety Training Program
The Carleton Laser Safety Program has been implemented in order to;
- prevent personal injury resulting from the exposure to radiation through the implementation of safe work practices, proper signage and training;
- conform to the requirements of the Ontario Ministry of Labor, the American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers (ANSI Z136.1), the American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers in Research, Development, or Testing (ANSI Z136.8 – 2012), and related regulations and standards.
This program applies to all employees and students of Carleton University, as well as to all building occupants and visitors who could potentially be exposed to laser radiation during the course of their work at the University. The program outlines registration, training and commissioning requirements.
Laser Registration
All Class 3B and Class 4 devices must be registered with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) using the Registration Form. This process allows EHS to collaborate with the owner in conducting a hazard analysis, ensuring that appropriate engineering and administrative controls are in place.
Registration also helps identify individuals using these systems so they can receive the necessary training. Additionally, it ensures regular inspections of equipment and systems for compliance with the Safety Program.
Training
This 3-hour training program provides general information on health and safety practices and considerations required when working with these systems. Topics include worker and supervisor responsibilities, exposure control measures, applicable procedures, and the use of personal protective equipment.
All faculty, staff, and students who work with such equipment must complete training before beginning work. The EHS Safety Training course is mandatory for all personnel intending to use these devices.
While the Safety Training covers foundational principles, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) must be created for each device and made available to all personnel in the workspace. The SOP must address specific safety considerations for beam alignment, normal operations, servicing, as well as potential non-beam hazards. An SOP Template is provided as a starting point for developing your procedure document.
Laser Controlled Areas Inspection Checklist
Laser Self-Inspection Checklist
How Do i Register ?
Employees, please register through Carleton Central under Learning and Development.
Students, please register using the form on the training session’s event page.