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Publication: December 2005, minor changes March 2006. For information about changes, please see the Revision History.

Chapter 10: Laser Safety

Overview

A laser is a device that produces a coherent, intense, highly directional beam of light of a single wavelength or tunable over a band of wavelengths. These properties have made lasers highly useful tools for research and manufacturing. Lasers are found everywhere. Printers, CD players, bar scanners, laser pointers, and alignment lasers are commonly found in the SLAC environment and are designed to be safe when used as intended. Also at SLAC, high-power, ultra-fast lasers are used in research and represent hazards that must be mitigated. This chapter describes these hazards and the methods used for their mitigation.

Hazards/Impacts

Laser hazards are related principally to the intensely powerful beam emitted, which can cause eye damage and skin burns. Related hazards include electrical currents, explosions, fires, toxic material, laser-generated air contaminants, collateral radiation, noise, and ultraviolet light. Information on these hazards can be found in related chapters of this manual.

Hazard Classifications

Laser safety requirements are specified according to the classification of the laser (see Definitions) based on

• The ability of the laser beam to cause injury to the eye or skin. For example, a Class 4 laser is capable of causing greater injury than a Class 1 laser.
• The level of the laser's accessible radiation. For example, a Class 1 laser system can contain an embedded Class 4 laser.

Scope

The laser safety program and its requirements apply to all personnel, SLAC and subcontractor, engaging in the operation of lasers at SLAC.