Laser safety: Practical requirements for setting up a laser facility

Abstract

The introduction of laser equipment into the manufacturing setting for either material processing or as an item in the final product raises questions of how to safely operate and service the equipment. The potential hazards to the eye and skin from laser exposure depend upon wavelength, exposure duration and viewing condition. Airborne contaminants released during laser processing (as with any type of welding and cutting) must be contained and removed from the breathing zone. The safety procedures are set forth in ANSI Standards in the Z136 series of standards published by LIA, and followed by the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Similar safety standards are in effect in Europe and in other parts of the world, although enforcement—if any—differs in each country.The introduction of laser equipment into the manufacturing setting for either material processing or as an item in the final product raises questions of how to safely operate and service the equipment. The potential hazards to the eye and skin from laser exposure depend upon wavelength, exposure duration and viewing condition. Airborne contaminants released during laser processing (as with any type of welding and cutting) must be contained and removed from the breathing zone. The safety procedures are set forth in ANSI Standards in the Z136 series of standards published by LIA, and followed by the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Similar safety standards are in effect in Europe and in other parts of the world, although enforcement—if any—differs in each country.