Laser Safety Manual

The purpose of this manual is to ensure the safe use of lasers in research and instructional laboratories at the University of Pennsylvania. To achieve this goal, the University has adopted the American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers, ANSI Z136.1-2014. ANSI Z136.1-2014 is recognized as a minimum standard for laser safety.

Most lasers are capable of causing eye injury from the direct beam and specular reflections. Class 4 lasers are also capable of causing eye injury from diffuse reflections, burning exposed skin, igniting flammable materials and generating hazardous air contaminants. Equipment used to produce the lasing action and control and direct the laser beam introduce additional hazards associated with high voltage, high pressure, cryogenics, noise, radiation and toxic gases.

Scope

This program applies to all lasers used in research and instructional laboratories at the University of Pennsylvania.

Responsibilities

A. Principal Investigators are responsible for:

• Supervising laser use in the laboratory.
• Implementing and enforcing the safety recommendations and requirements outlined in this manual.
• Developing standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the laboratory.
• Providing laser operators with training in operating, administrative and alignment procedures.
• Ensuring that all lasers in the laboratory are properly classified and labeled.
• Ensuring that the proper signs are posted at the entrance(s) to the laboratory.
• Registering all lasers with the Office of Environmental Health and Radiation Safety (EHRS).
• Completing laser safety training.
• Notifying EHRS immediately in the event of an exposure to a Class 3b or Class 4 laser beam or reflection.

B. Laser Operators are responsible for:

• Following laboratory standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Informing the Principal Investigator of any departure from the SOPs.
• Notifying the Principal Investigator in the event of an exposure incident.
• Attending laser safety training.

C.The Laser Safety Officer (LSO) is responsible for:

• Conducting safety audits of all laser laboratories.
• Providing assistance in evaluating and controlling hazards.
• Updating the Laser Safety Manual.
• Maintaining records of all lasers and laser operators.
• Conducting laser safety training for all personnel working with lasers.
• Participating in accident investigations involving lasers.

• Only qualified personnel are permitted to operate a laser. The Principal Investigator will identify qualified personnel based on departmental training, technical training and other appropriate learning experience.
• All staff and students operating Class 3b and Class 4 lasers are required to attend laser safety training prior to working with lasers.
• Before operating a Class 3b or 4 laser, staff and students shall:
  • Review the Laser Safety Manual.
  • Receive training from the Principal Investigator or laboratory supervisor covering safe operation of the laser to be used, administrative procedures, alignment procedures and other applicable SOPs.
  • Review the operating and safety instructions furnished by the manufacturer.

Lasers and laser systems are classified based on their capability of injuring personnel.

1. Lasers manufactured after August 1, 1976 are classified and labeled by the manufacturer. The Principal Investigator shall classify lasers and laser systems that are constructed or modified in the laboratory.
2. There are five laser hazard classes:
   • Class 1 lasers and laser systems cannot emit accessible levels of radiation that are capable of causing eye injury under normal operating condition. (A more hazardous laser may be embedded in a Class 1 product that is not accessible during normal operating conditions, but may be accessible during service and maintenance.)
   • Class 1M lasers and laser systems refer to lasers with a large diameter or highly divergent beam.  Class 1M lasers cannot emit accessible levels of laser radiation that are capable of causing injury under normal operating conditions, but may be a hazard if viewed through magnifying optics, such as a microscope, eye-loupe or telescope.
   • Class 2 lasers and laser systems are visible lasers with an accessible output ≤ 1 mW. Class 2 lasers and laser systems are incapable of causing eye injury unless intentionally viewed directly for an extended period. The normal aversion response to bright light (blinking) protects the eye from a momentary exposure.
   • Class 2M laser or laser systems refer to lasers with a large diameter or highly divergent visible beam with an accessible output < 1mW.  However, Class 2M is potentially hazardous if viewed with collecting optics such as a microscope, eye-loupe or telescope. 
   • Class 3R (formally 3A) lasers and laser systems have an accessible output between 1-5 mW and do not pose a serious eye hazard unless viewed through optical instruments.
   • Class 3b lasers and laser systems have an accessible output between 5-500 mW for continuous wave lasers and < 0.125 J within 0.25 second for a pulsed laser. Class 3b lasers and laser systems pose a serious eye hazard from viewing the direct beam or specular reflections.
   • Class 4 lasers and laser systems have an accessible output > 500 mW for a continuous wave laser and > 0.125 J within 0.25 second for a pulsed laser. Class 4 lasers and laser systems pose a serious eye hazard from viewing the direct beam, specular reflections and diffuse reflections. Class 4 lasers and laser systems also pose skin and fire hazards.

The site of damage and threshold at which damage occurs depends on the wavelength, whether it is a small or extended source, the exposure duration, whether it is continuous wave or pulsed, and, if pulsed, the pulse length and pulse repetition frequency.

Operating lasers under reduced external light conditions increases the optical hazards because of pupil dilation.

The Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) is the level of laser radiation that a person may be exposed to without experiencing adverse health effects. Contact the LSO Valerie Perez for assistance in calculating the MPE.

Eye
Bio-effects of the eye are summarized in the following table:
 

Skin
Bio-effects of the skin are summarized in the following table:
 

The Principal Investigator shall register all Class 3b, Class 4 lasers and laser systems. The registry shall be updated when lasers are taken out of service or new lasers are purchased. The Laser Registry Form is available on the EHRS website or by contacting the laser safety officer.

• Individuals operating Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3a lasers are exempt from medical surveillance.
• Baseline eye examination prior to using a Class 3b or Class 4 laser are not required. If an operator wants an exam it should cover:
  • Ocular history
  • Visual acuity
  • Amsler grid test
  • Color vision
• Baseline eye examinations are performed by the Ophthalmology Department located in the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and are paid for by the University. (See Appendix D for scheduling instructions and the Laser Eye Exam Form.)

Seek medical attention in the event of an exposure or suspected exposure to laser radiation capable of causing an eye or skin injury. Staff members are treated at Occupational Medicine; students are treated at Student Health. If the exposure occurs after hours, staff and students are treated at the emergency room in the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

Notify the Principal Investigator and EHRS when an exposure incident occurs.

Different high-power lasers have different individual hazards, including optical hazards, UV radiation, high voltages, ozone generation, toxic chemicals and gases, etc.

A laser hazard evaluation shall be performed to identify all hazards associated with a laser or laser system and to determine the necessary control measures. The LSO Valerie Perez can provide assistance in performing the hazard evaluation.

The hazard evaluation will take into account the following aspects:

• The laser or laser system’s capability of injuring personnel.
• The environment in which the laser is used.
• The personnel who may use or be exposed to laser radiation.

It is important to distinguish between operation, maintenance and service when considering control measures. Lasers and laser systems are classified based on the level of accessible laser radiation during normal operation. Maintenance tasks are performed to support routine performance of the laser or laser system, such as cleaning and replenishing expendables. Maintenance tasks may or may not involve access to the beam. Service occurs less frequently than maintenance and often requires access to the beam. Service tasks include replacing laser resonator mirrors and replacing or repairing faulty components.

The purpose of control measures is to prevent exposure to laser radiation above the MPE. Use engineering controls whenever possible. When engineering controls are not able to reduce exposure below the MPE, administrative controls and personal protective equipment should be used.

1. Protective Housing
   • Place lasers in protective housings whenever practical. When protective housings are not practical, the LSO shall perform a hazard analysis to ensure that control measures are implemented to ensure safe operation.
   • Protective housings or service panels enclosing embedded Class 3b and 4 lasers shall be interlocked or fastened closed requiring special tools for removal.
   • When it is necessary to remove protective housings or service panels, a temporary laser controlled area shall be established. A temporary laser controlled area will not have the built-in protective features that are part of a laser-controlled area, but shall provide all safety requirements to protect personnel within and outside the area. Requirements for the temporary laser controlled area include, but are not limited to:
     1. Restricted access to the area.
     2. Control of the beam to prevent the beam and reflections from extending beyond the area.
     3. Removal of reflective materials in and near the beam path.
     4. Appropriate laser eye protection if there is a possibility of exposure to laser radiation above the MPE.
     5. A warning sign posted outside the area. (See Section XIX for the warning sign requirements.)
2. Collecting Optics
   Collecting optics used to view the laser beam or its interaction with a material shall have permanently attached attenuators, filters or shutters to prevent hazardous levels of radiation from entering the eye.
3. Beam Control
   • Ensure the beam height is not at the normal eye position of a person in a standing or seated position.
   • Position the laser so that the beam is not directed toward doorways or aisles.
   • Securely mount the laser system to maintain the beam in a fixed position during operation and limit beam movements during adjustments.
   • Ensure beam path is well defined and controlled.
   • Terminate the beam at the end of its useful path.
   • Confine beams and reflections to the optical table. The addition of beam-stopping panels to the sides of the optical table is recommended.
   • If the beam path extends beyond the optical table, a physical barrier shall be used to prevent accidental exposure.
   • Have only diffusely reflecting materials in or near the beam path, where feasible.
   • Absorb unwanted reflections. Scatter is not permitted.

All of the control measures outlined in Section X must be met. The following are additional requirements for Class 3b and Class 4 lasers and laser systems.

1. Nominal Hazard Zone (NHZ)
   A NHZ shall be established for Class 3b and Class 4 laser applications which require an open beam. The NHZ is the area in which the level of direct, reflected or scattered laser radiation exceeds the MPE. The LSO can assist in defining the NHZ.
2. Laser-Controlled Area
   A laser-controlled area shall be established for Class 3b and Class 4 lasers. The laser-controlled area will contain the NHZ, if needed. The walls, ceiling and floor of the room often define the laser-controlled area.
   • Class 3b Laser Controlled Area
     1. Only personnel trained in the operation of the laser and laser safety shall be permitted to operate the laser or laser system.
     2. An individual knowledgeable in laser safety shall directly supervise the laser-controlled area.
     3. The area shall be posted with the appropriate warning signs. (See Section XIX.)
     4. Restrict access to the laser controlled area.
     5. Control the beam to prevent any misdirected beams or reflections. (See Section X.C.)
     6. Provide eye protection for all personnel working in the laser-controlled area. (See Section XVII.)
     7. Cover all windows and other openings to prevent laser radiation from extending beyond the laser-controlled area
   • Class 4 Laser-Controlled Area
     All of the requirements for a Class 3b laser-controlled area must be met. In addition, one of the following entryway controls must be incorporated into a Class 4 laser controlled area.
     1. Non-Defeatable Entryway Safety Controls: Non-defeatable safety latches or interlocks that deactivate the laser or reduce the output to levels below the MPE in the event of unexpected entry are the preferred method of entryway control.
     2. Defeatable Entryway Safety Controls: If non-defeatable controls limit the intended use of the laser, defeatable entryway safety controls may be used. Defeatable entryway controls allow authorized personnel to override the controls. Defeatable entryway controls may be used only if there is no laser radiation hazard at the point of entry. Personnel must be properly trained and provided with adequate personal protective equipment.
     3. Procedural Entryway Controls: If safety latches or interlocks are not feasible, procedural entryway controls may be used. When procedural entryway controls are used, the following conditions must be met:
        1. All authorized personnel shall be adequately trained.
        2. Personal protective equipment shall be provided.
        3. A door, barrier, screen or curtains shall be used to block or attenuate the laser radiation below the MPE at the entryway.
        4. The entryway shall be equipped with a lighted laser warning sign that indicates the laser is operating
3. Permanently Attached Beam Stop or Attenuator
   Some lasers or laser systems have long warm-up times, and it may not be practical to turn the power off to the laser when the laser is not in use. In these cases, Class 3b lasers should be equipped with a permanently attached beam stop or attenuator and Class 4 lasers shall be equipped with a permanently attached beam stop or attenuator. The beam stop or attenuator must limit accessible laser radiation to below the MPE and be employed when the laser is not in use. For lasers that do not require warm-up time, turn the power off to the laser when not in use.
4. Standard Operating Procedures
   Written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are required for operating, alignment, maintenance and service activities. The SOPs shall be written by the Principal Investigator and available to the LSO for review. SOPs shall be reviewed with all laser personnel and be posted in the area of the laser or available in the laboratory Bioraft account.
   The manufacturer’s operating manual is not a substitute for an SOP.
   SOPs must include: (See Appendix 3 for a sample SOP)
   • Laser data
   • Contact information
   • Laser application
   • Control measures
   • Personal protective equipment
   • Start up and shut down procedures
   • Experimental procedures
   • Emergency procedures
   • Storage
   • Non-beam hazards
5. Output Emission Limitations
   Operate the laser or laser system at the lowest level of power or radiant energy required for the application.

An alarm, a warning light or a verbal “countdown” command shall be used during activation or startup of single pulse or intermittent operations.

All of the control measures in Sections X-XII must be met. The following are additional control measures for Class 3b and Class 4 ultraviolet and infrared lasers:

• Visible or audible warning devices shall be installed in areas where accessible laser radiation may exceed the MPE. These warning devices shall be clearly identified and visible from all areas of potential exposure.
• Wear gloves, long sleeves and a face shield when manipulating UV beams
• Install shielding that will attenuate UV radiation levels to below the MPE.
• Infrared beam enclosures or backstops shall be constructed of infrared absorbent materials. Enclosures, backstops or other materials that may contact a Class 4 infrared laser shall also be fire resistant.

More laser accidents occur during beam alignment than any other laser manipulation. Use the following techniques to prevent accidents.

• Exclude unnecessary personnel from the laser controlled area during alignment.
• Perform alignment at the lowest possible power level.
• Use low-power visible lasers for path simulation of high-power visible or invisible lasers, when possible.
• Use a temporary beam attenuator over the beam aperture to reduce the level of laser radiation below the MPE, when possible.
• Wear laser safety eyewear during alignment. Alignment eyewear may be used when aligning a low power visible laser. (See section XVIII.)
• Use beam display devices (image converter viewers or phosphor cards) to locate beams when aligning invisible lasers.
• Use shutters or beam blocks to block high-power beams at their source except when needed during the alignment procedure.
• Use beam blocks to block high-power beams downstream of the optics being aligned.
• Use beam blocks or protective barriers when alignment beams could stray into areas with uninvolved personnel.
• Place beam blocks behind optics such as turning mirrors to terminate beams that may miss the mirrors during alignment.
• Locate and block all stray reflections before proceeding to the next optical component or section.
• Ensure that all beams and reflections are terminated before resuming high-power operation.

A laser or laser system in which the entire beam path is enclosed and the enclosure fulfills all requirements of a protective housing is considered to be Class 1 and no further controls are needed. However, if the protective housing is removed, a temporary laser controlled area must be established and control measures applicable to the class of the embedded laser must be implemented. (See Section X.A.)

Modifications to commercial laser systems must be evaluated by the LSO Valerie Perez.

1. Requirements for Protective Housings:
   • Protective housings shall limit the accessible laser radiation below the MPE
   • Protective housings shall prevent access to the laser during normal operations
   • Protective housings shall be equipped with safety interlocks wherever the protective housing can be opened, removed or displaced.
   • The safety interlocks shall be designed to prevent access to laser radiation above the MPE. (For example, the interlock may be electrically or mechanically interfaced to a shutter that interrupts the beam when the protective housing is opened or removed.)
   • The safety interlock shall be fail-safe. The use of redundant electrical series connected interlocks would fulfill this requirement.
   • Adjustments or procedures during service shall not cause the interlocks to be inoperative when the laser is placed back in operation.
   • The protective housing shall be labeled in accordance with ANSI Z136.1-2014.
   • The embedded laser shall be labeled in accordance with ANSI Z136.1-2014.

Laser scanning confocal microscopes contain embedded Class 3 or Class 4 lasers. Manufacturer recommendations should be always be followed for safe use.  In some cases, laser safety eyewear may be needed during operation.

Microscope systems that are altered by the lab, including the addition of new lasers, must be reviewed by the Laser Safety Officer.  Microscopes with open beams must be registered with the Laser Safety Officer.

If the protective housing is removed for alignment, maintenance or service activities, a temporary laser-controlled area shall be established and control measures appropriate to the class of the embedded laser shall be implemented.

• Electrical Hazards
  The use of lasers or laser systems presents an electric shock hazard. Most lasers contain high-voltage power supplies and capacitors or capacitor banks that store lethal amounts of electrical energy. Exposures may occur from contact with energized components operating at potentials of 50 volts and above. These exposures most often occur during set up or installation, maintenance, modification and service when protective covers are removed.
  To reduce electrical hazards:
  • Lasers and associated electrical equipment must be designed, constructed, installed and maintained in accordance with the latest revision of the National Electric Code (NEC.)
  • When protective housings or covers will be removed, potentially exposing energized components, the following measures must be followed:
    1. Adhere to the University’s Lock Out Tag Out Procedure.
    2. Enclose high voltage sources and terminals whenever possible.
    3. Turn off power and ground all high voltage points before working on power supplies.
    4. Check that each capacitor is discharged and grounded prior to working near the capacitor. (Capacitors must be equipped with bleeder resistors, discharge devices or automatic shorting devices.)
    5. Do not wear rings, watches or other jewelry when working with or near electrical equipment.

Laser-Generated Air Contaminants (LGAC)
Air contaminants may be generated when Class 4 and some Class 3b laser beams interact with matter. The quantity, composition and chemical complexity of the LGAC depend on the target material, cover gas and beam irradiance. Materials such as plastics, composites, metals and tissues may release carcinogenic, toxic and noxious air contaminants. Ozone is produced around flash lamps and can build up with high repetition rate lasers. Special optical materials used for far infrared windows and lenses may also release hazardous air contaminants.
Concentrations of LGAC must be maintained below the exposure limits specified by OSHA, NIOSH or ACGIH. There are three major control measures to reduce the concentration of LGAC to acceptable levels:

• Use local exhaust ventilation to remove the LGAC at the point of generation. Local exhaust ventilation should be vented to the outside.
• Isolate the process whenever possible.
• Respiratory protection shall be used only when engineering controls are not feasible. ehrs@ehrs.upenn.edu must be contacted prior to wearing a respirator. Refer to the University’s Respiratory Protection Program for more information.

Collateral radiation (radiation not associated with the primary laser beam) may be produced by system components such as power supplies, discharge lamps and plasma tubes. Radiation may be in the form of X-rays, UV, visible, IR, microwave and radiofrequency (RF).
When high power pulsed laser beams (peak irradiance of 1012 W/cm2 or greater) are focused on a target, plasma is generated that may also emit collateral radiation.
Contact the LSO for evaluation of these hazards. A Health Physicist will evaluate hazards associated with ionizing radiation.

Class 4 laser beams can ignite flammable solvents, gases and combustible materials:

To reduce fire hazards:

• Terminate laser beams with non-combustible materials
• Bring only necessary materials into the laser area.
• Store flammable and combustible solvents and materials properly and away from the laser beam.

High-pressure arc lamps, filament lamps and capacitor banks may explode if they fail during operation. The laser target and elements of the optical train may shatter during operation.
To reduce explosion hazards:

• Enclose high-pressure arc lamps and filament lamps in housings that can withstand an explosion if the lamp disintegrates.
• Enclose the laser target and optical train in protective housing during laser operation.
• Ensure that capacitors are equipped with current-limiting devices and are shielded.

Hazardous gases are used in some laser applications including chlorine, fluorine, hydrogen chloride and hydrogen fluoride. Laboratories with compressed gases are required to have an SOP. See the Compressed Gas SOP in the Chemical Hygiene Plan.

Laser dyes are complex fluorescent organic compounds that are dissolved in a solvent to form a lasing medium. Some dyes are highly toxic or carcinogenic. Most solvents suitable for dye solutions are flammable and toxic by inhalation and/or skin absorption.
The following measures shall be followed when working with dyes:

• Whenever possible, do not use dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) as a solvent for cyanine dyes because it aids in the transport of dyes through the skin and into the blood stream. If DMSO must be used, wear gloves. Disposable nitrile gloves may be worn if prolonged contact with DMSO is not anticipated. Other glove choices include neoprene, natural rubber and butyl gloves. PVA and PVC gloves are not recommended for use with DMSO. See the Chemical Hygiene Plan Handling of Chemicals for more information.
• Obtain material safety data sheets (MSDSs) for all dyes and solvents prior to working with them.
• Prepare and handle dye solutions in a fume hood.
• Use disposable bench covers.
• Wear a lab coat, safety glasses and gloves. Contact EHRS for assistance with glove selection.
• Pressure test all dye laser components before using dye solutions. Pay particular attention to tubing connections.
• Install spill pans under pumps and reservoirs.
• See the Chemical Hygiene Plan for more information regarding safe chemical work practices.

Noise levels from some lasers, such as pulsed excimer lasers, may be high enough to require hearing protection. A good rule of thumb is if it is difficult to conduct a normal conversation at approximately 3 feet away, hearing protection may be required. Contact EHRS for noise monitoring and assistance in selecting hearing protection.

Enclosure of the laser equipment or the beam path is the preferred method of control. However, when enclosures are not feasible and there is a potential exposure to the beam or reflected beams at levels above the MPE, it may be necessary to wear protective eyewear.

1. Availability and Use of Laser Safety Eyewear
   • Laser safety eyewear shall be available and worn by laser operators, incident personnel and visitors in laboratories where a Class 3b or Class 4 laser is present and there is a potential exposure to the beam or reflected beams at levels above the MPE.
   • Laser safety eyewear is not required for Class 2 or Class 3R (formally 3a) lasers unless intentional long-term (>.25 seconds) direct viewing is required.
   • The Principal Investigator is responsible for ensuring that the appropriate eyewear is available and worn.

Selecting Laser Safety Eyewear

• Laser safety eyewear is wavelength specific.
• The following information is needed to select the appropriate laser safety eyewear:
  1. Wavelength(s)
  2. Mode of operation (continuous wave or pulsed)
  3. Maximum exposure duration (assume worst case scenario)
  4. Maximum irradiance (W/cm2) or radiant exposure (J/cm2)
  5. Maximum permissible exposure (MPE)
  6. Optical density (OD)
• Contact LSO for assistance in calculating the MPE and OD and selecting appropriate eyewear.
• Laser safety eyewear shall be chosen based on the level of protection needed to protect the eyes from a worst case scenario. If several laser safety eyewear products offer sufficient protection, the following factors should also be considered:
  1. Visible light transmission
  2. Effect on color vision
  3. Field of view provided by the design of the eyewear
  4. Reversible bleaching of absorbing media
  5. Need for prescription lenses
  6. Fit and comfort
  7. Impact resistance

• Types of Laser Safety Eyewear
  1. Glass: Glass laser eyewear is heavier and more costly than plastic, but it provides better visible light transmittance. There are two types of glass lenses, those with absorptive glass filters and those with reflective coatings. Reflective coatings can create specular reflections and the coating can scratch, minimizing the protection level of the eyewear.
  2. Polycarbonate: Polycarbonate laser eyewear is lighter, less expensive and offers higher impact resistance than glass, but allows less visible light transmittance.
  3. Diffuse Viewing Only (DVO): As the name implies, DVO eyewear is to be used when there is a potential for exposure to diffuse reflections only. DVO eyewear may not provide protection from the direct beam or specular reflections.
  4. Alignment Eyewear: Alignment eyewear may be used when aligning low power visible laser beams. Alignment eyewear transmits enough of the specified wavelength to be seen for alignment purposes, but not enough to cause damage to the eyes. Alignment eyewear cannot be used during operation of high power or invisible beams and cannot be used with pulsed lasers.
• Laser Safety Eyewear for Multiple Wavelengths
  One pair of laser safety eyewear may not be sufficient when working with tunable or multiple wavelength lasers. Always check the OD and wavelength prior to use. Eyewear with multiband filters and flip-up eyewear are available for some applications.
• Laser Safety Eyewear for Ultra-Fast (Femtosecond) Lasers
  Temporary bleaching may occur from high peak irradiances from ultra-fast laser pulses. Contact the manufacturer of the laser safety eyewear for test data to determine if the eyewear will provide adequate protection before using them.
• Labeling of Laser Safety Eyewear
  Laser safety eyewear shall be labeled with the optical density and the wavelength(s) the eyewear provides protection for. Additional labeling may be added for quick identification of eyewear in multiple laser laboratories.

Laser safety eyewear shall be labeled with the optical density and the wavelength(s) the eyewear provides protection for. Additional labeling may be added for quick identification of eyewear in multiple laser laboratories.

• Inspection and Cleaning of Laser Safety Eyewear
  Laser safety eyewear should be inspected periodically for the following:
  1. Pitting, crazing, cracking and discoloration of the attenuation material.
  2. Mechanical integrity of the frame.
  3. Light leaks.
  4. Coating damage.
  Follow manufacturers’ instructions when cleaning laser safety eyewear. Use care when cleaning eyewear to avoid damage to absorbing filters or reflecting surface.

• Lighted Warning Signs
  Entrances to all laboratories where a Class 3b or Class 4 laser is present shall have a lighted warning sign that is activated when the laser is energized.
• Written Warning Signs
  The following warning signs are required to be posted at the entrances to laboratories where lasers are present:
  
  • All laboratories where a Class 2, Class 3R (formally 3a), Class 3b or Class 4 laser is present shall have a laser radiation label affixed to the room sign. Labels for Class 2 and Class 3R lasers shall be worded “Caution – Laser Radiation.” Labels for Class 3b and Class 4 lasers shall be worded “Warning – Laser Radiation.” or “Danger – Laser Radiation” for multi kW lasers.  Room signs may be requested by submitting the Room Sign Request Form on the EHRS website.
  • All laboratories where a Class 3b or Class 4 laser is present shall have a Warning or Danger sign on the door(s) to the laboratory that conforms to ANSI Z136.1-2007 or 2014. Laboratories with a Class 3R laser that generates a beam with an irradiance or radiant exposure equal to or greater than the MPE shall also have a “Warning” sign affixed to the door(s).
    The Warning or Danger sign shall indicate the precautionary instructions or protective actions required, the type of laser or wavelength, the pulse duration (if applicable), the maximum output and the class of the laser or laser system. The sign shall use the symbols, color and layout shown in the example below.
    Laser warning signs may be requested by submitting the Laser Warning Sign Request Form on the EHRS website.
    
  • All laboratories where a Class 2 or Class 3R laser is present shall have a Caution sign on the door(s) to the laboratory that conforms to ANSI Z136.1-2007 or 2014. (Class 3R lasers that generate a beam with an irradiance or radiant exposure equal to or greater than the MPE shall have a “Warning” sign. See above.)
    The Caution sign shall indicate the precautionary instructions, the type of laser or wavelength and the class of the laser or laser system.
    Laser warning signs may be requested by submitting the Laser Warning Sign Request Form on the EHRS website.
    
  • The outside boundary of a temporary laser controlled area shall be posted with a Notice sign that conforms to ANSI Z136.1-2014. The Notice sign shall indicate the reason for the temporary controls, the precautionary instructions or protective actions required, the type of laser or the wavelength, the pulse duration (if applicable), the maximum output and the class of the laser. The sign shall use the symbols, color and layout shown in the example below.
    Temporary laser controlled area warning signs may be requested by submitting the Laser Warning Sign Request Form on the EHRS website.
    
• Labels
  Lasers shall be properly labeled as follows:
  • All Class 2, Class 3R (formally 3a), Class 3b and Class 4 lasers and laser systems shall have a label conspicuously affixed to the housing that conforms with ANSI Z136.1-2007 or 2014. The label shall indicate the precautionary instructions or protective actions required, the type of laser or the wavelength, the pulse duration (if applicable), maximum output and the class of the laser or laser system. The label shall incorporate the sunburst symbol.
    Manufacturers are required to label lasers in accordance with the Federal Laser Product Performance Standard (21CFR1040.10.) These labels satisfy this requirement.
    Contact EHRS for label specifications if the laser was not labeled by the manufacturer, or if it was modified or built in the laboratory.
    
  • All removable protective housings shall have a label affixed in a conspicuous location that conforms to ANSI Z136.1-2007 or 2014. The label shall indicate the hazard of the enclosed laser. This label does not need to contain the sunburst symbol. Contact EHRS for label specifications.
    

Information Resources

American National Standards Institute (ANSI) www.ansi.org

Laser Institute of America www.lia.org

Rockwell Laser Institute www.rli.com

Laser Safety Eyewear Resources

Kentek  www.kenteklaserstore.com

Laservision  www.lasersafety.com

NoIR Laser  www.noirlaser.com

Rockwell Laser Institute  www.rli.com

Sperian  www.sperian.com

ThorLabs www.thorlabs.com

University of Pennsylvania Resources

Chemical Hygiene Plan

Personal Protective Equipment Plan

Accessible laser radiation. Laser radiation to which the human eye or skin may be exposed for the condition (operation, maintenance or service) specified.

American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers (ANSI Z136.1-2014.) Document that provides guidance for the safe use of lasers and laser systems by defining control measures for each of four laser classifications. The University of Pennsylvania has adopted this standard as a minimum standard for laser safety.

Attenuation. The decrease in the radiant flux as it passes through an absorbing or scattering medium.

Authorized personnel. Individuals approved by the Principal Investigator to install, operate or service laser equipment.

Average power. The total energy in an exposure or emission divided by the duration of the exposure or emission.

Aversion response. Closure of the eyelid or movement of the head to avoid an exposure to a noxious stimulant or bright light. Aversion response to an exposure from a bright laser source is assumed to occur within 0.25 s, including the blink reflex time.

Collateral radiation. Any electronic radiation, except laser radiation, emitted by a laser or laser system that is physically necessary for its operation.

Collecting optics. Lenses or optical instruments having magnification and thereby producing an increase in energy or power density. Such devices may include telescopes, binoculars or loupes.

Continuous wave (CW). The output of a laser that is operated in a continuous rather than a pulsed mode. For purposes of safety evaluation, a laser operating with a continuous output for a period > 0.25 s is regarded as a CW laser.

Controlled area. An area where the occupancy and activity of those within is subject to control and supervision for the purpose of protection from laser radiation and related hazards.

Diffuse reflection. Change of the spatial distribution of a beam of radiation when it is reflected in many directions by a surface or by a medium.

Embedded Laser. An enclosed laser with an assigned class number higher than the inherent capability of the laser system in which it is incorporated, where the system's lower classification is the result of engineering features which limits the accessible emission.

Failsafe interlock. An interlock where the failure of a single mechanical or electrical component of the interlock will cause the system to go into, or remain in, a safe mode.

Incident personnel. Individuals working in areas where there is a potential for exposure to laser radiation from a Class 3b or Class 4 laser, but do not operate the laser.

Infrared radiation. Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths that lie within the range 0.7 µm to 1 mm.

Intrabeam viewing. The viewing condition whereby the eye is exposed to all or part of a laser beam.

Laser operator. See Authorized Personnel.

Laser controlled area. See Controlled Area.

Laser Safety Officer (LSO). One who has the authority to monitor and enforce the control of laser hazards and effect the knowledgeable evaluation and control of laser hazards. The LSO for the University of Pennsylvania is on the staff of EHRS.

Laser system. An assembly of electrical, mechanical, and optical components that includes one or more lasers.

Maintenance. Performance of those adjustments or procedures specified in user information provided by the manufacturer with the laser or laser system, which are to be performed by the user to ensure the intended performance of the product.

Maximum permissible exposure (MPE). The level of laser radiation to which a person may be exposed without hazardous effect or adverse biological changes in the eye or skin. MPE is expressed in terms of either radiant exposure (joules/cm2) or irradiance (watts/cm2). The criteria for MPE are detailed in Section 8 of ANSI Z136.1.

Nominal hazard zone (NHZ). The space within which the level of the direct, reflected, or scattered radiation during normal operation exceeds the applicable MPE. (Exposure levels beyond the boundary of the NHZ are below the appropriate MPE level.)

Operation. The performance of the laser or laser system over the full range of its intended functions (normal operation.)

Optical density. Logarithm to the base ten of the reciprocal of the transmittance. The higher the optical density, the lower the transmittance.

Pulsed laser. A laser that delivers its energy in the form of a single pulse or a train of pulses. The duration of a pulse is regarded to be < 0.25 s.

Q-switch. A device for producing very short (10-250 ns) intense laser pulses by enhancing the storage and dumping of electronic energy in and out of the lasing medium, respectively.

Repetitive pulse laser. A laser with multiple pulses of radiant energy occurring in sequence.

Reversible bleaching. The absorbing filter of laser eyewear may become temporarily saturated from an ultrashort laser pulse, causing the beam to pass through.

Service. The performance of those procedures or adjustments described in the manufacturer's service instructions that may affect any aspect of the performance of the laser or laser system. These are usually performed by qualified technical personnel provided by the manufacturer or other service companies.

Shall. The word “shall” is to be understood as mandatory.

Should. The word “should” is to be understood as advisory.

Specular reflection. A mirror-like reflection.

Ultraviolet radiation. Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths smaller than those of visible radiation; for the purpose of this manual, 0.18 to 0.4 µm.

Visible radiation (light). Electromagnetic radiation that can be detected by the human eye. This term is commonly used to describe wavelengths that lie in the range 0.4 to 0.7 µm.

Wavelength. The distance between two successive points on a periodic wave which have the same phase.

SOP Template for Optical Tables

SOP Template for No Optical Tables

• Get authorization from your department’s Business Administrator or Financial Office. The cost of the laser eye examination is $280.00.
• Call 215-662-8100 to schedule an appointment.
• Tell the scheduling representative that you need an eye examination for laser users.
• The scheduling representative may ask you for your insurance information. Tell him or her that the University is paying for the exam and you will be bringing the billing information on the day of the exam.
• Download the Laser Eye Examination Form from the EHRS website.
• Fill in the form as follows:
  1. In Field 1 enter the name of the Business Administrator or Financial Office contact.
  2. In Field 2 enter today’s date.
  3. In Field 3 enter the patient’s name.
  4. In Field 4 enter the name of the Business Administrator or Financial Office contact.
  5. In Field 5 enter the address of the Business Administrator or Financial Office contact.
  6. In Field 6 enter the phone number of the Business Administrator or Financial Office contact.
• Print the form on department letterhead and have the Business Administrator or Financial Office contact sign it.
• Take the signed form with you to your appointment. Ophthalmology will not perform the eye examination if you do not have the form with you or if it is incomplete.