Chapter 10: Laser Safety

Overview (1)

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, compact disc players, bar scanners, laser pointers, and alignment lasers are commonly found at the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC) 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 (1.1)

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 (1.1.1)

Laser safety requirements are specified according to the classification of the laser (see Section 4, “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 (2)

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

Implementation (8)

The requirements of this chapter are effective upon publication unless otherwise noted here.

continue to Standards (3)

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