Laser Safety

Introduction

The acronym LASER stands for "light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation." Lasers are devices that produce light at very specific frequencies of the electromagnetic spectrum. The frequency of a laser depends on the type of material that is stimulated. The properties of lasers are similar to those of the other members of the electromagnetic spectrum. However, lasers can achieve great power densities which, along with operating at a single wavelength, has made them indispensable in today's marketplace. Lasers can also present a serious danger to the eyes and skin. Care must be taken to assure the safe operation of lasers.

The Radiation Control for Health and Safety Act of 1968 was passed by Congress to protect the U.S. public from the dangers of radiation exposure from electronic products. Federal regulations require that all laser products. (i.e., any electronic product that consists of, incorporates, or is intended to incorporate a laser) manufactured on or after August 2, 1976, be certified as complying with the FDA performance standards for laser products, 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11 under the Radiation Control for Health and Safety Act. Also, reference ANSI Z-136.1-1993 American National Standard Institute 1993.

Guidelines & Registration

Please complete the following steps when a laser is being installed in your department for the first time: 

  1. Complete a Hazard Assessment and submit it to Scheryl Chinn at schinn@unm.edu. 
  2. Complete the online registration form below.
  3. An inspection will need to be performed prior to use. 
  4. Ensure all required signs are posted and complete. Templates can be found at the bottom of this page.

 

Now offering Laser Safety Training for all laboratories with Class 3B and Class 4 lasers on campus; please email Scheryl Chinn (schinn@unm.edu) to schedule! 

Downloads:

Email a copy of the completed Laser Registration Form or the Laser Self Audit Form to CHEMSAFETY-L@list.unm.edu.

Laser Safety Signs

The UNM Laser Safety Program requires all laboratories where a Class 2, Class 2M, Class 3R, Class 3B or Class 4 laser is present to have a laser warning sign posted at the entrances to the laboratory. Entrances to Class 3B or Class 4 laser laboratories shall have a lighted warning sign that is activated when the laser is energized.

Laser Safety Sign Downloads: