Key Laser Safety Laws & Regulations Every LSO Should Know

Laser Classification, Hazards, and Risk Identification

Purpose:

This sheet provides learners with a comprehensive overview of UK laws, regulations, and standards governing laser safety. It links legislative requirementsto real-world laser operation practices, ensuring compliance and safe management of laser hazards in the workplace.

The sheet covers:

  • Legal frameworks for laser operation
  • Standards for classification, risk assessment, and control
  • Workplace application of regulations
  • Practical examples to reinforce understanding

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HSWA 1974)

Overview:

  • Primary legislation in the UK for general workplace health and safety.
  • Places responsibility on employers to provide a safe working environment and protect employees and the public.

Key Provisions for Laser Safety:

  • Employers must identify laser hazards in the workplace.
  • Ensure adequate training for personnel handling lasers.
  • Implement engineering controls and administrative procedures to minimize risks.
  • Provide PPE appropriate to laser class and wavelength.

Workplace Application Example:

  • Class 4 CO₂ laser in a dermatology clinic:
    • Restricted access controlled by interlocked doors and illuminated warning signs.
    • Mandatory laser safety training for operators.
    • Risk assessment performed and recorded for each procedure.

Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 (AOR 2010)

Overview:

  • UK-specific regulation addressing exposure to artificial optical radiation, including lasers.
  • Derived from European Directive 2006/25/EC.

Key Provisions:

  • Employers must assess risks of exposure to laser beams.
  • Implement control measures: engineering controls, administrative controls, and PPE.
  • Ensure workers do not exceed exposure limits (Maximum Permissible Exposure – MPE).
  • Provide information, instruction, and training on laser hazards.

Workplace Application Example:

  • Aesthetic clinic using Nd:YAG 1064 nm laser:
    • PPE: OD 5+ protective goggles.
    • Controlled room with beam stops, interlocks, and signage.
    • Written SOPs and exposure monitoring.

BS EN 60825-1:2014 – Safety of Laser Products

Overview:

  • International standard adopted in the UK.
  • Specifies laser classification, hazard evaluation, labeling, and safetyrequirements.

Key Provisions:

  • Classification of lasers from Class 1 to Class 4.
  • Specifies safety measures for each class (e.g., protective housings, beam stops).
  • Requires warning labels and user manuals detailing safety information.

Workplace Application Example:

  • Industrial fiber laser cutting:
    • Class 4 laser requires interlocks, restricted access, and PPE.
    • Laser risk assessment aligns with BS EN 60825-1 recommendations.

BS EN 60825-14:2018 – Laser Safety in Medical Applications

Overview:

Applies to medical, aesthetic, and research lasers.
Provides guidance on safe operation in healthcare and cosmetic settings.

Key Provisions:

Defines controlled areas and access restrictions.
Mandates eye and skin protection for patients and staff.
Recommends engineering and administrative controls for Class 3B and 4 lasers.

Workplace Application Example:

  • Laser tattoo removal clinic:
    • Q-switched laser used in a controlled room.
    • PPE for operator and patient.
    • LEV system to remove laser plume.

Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER 1998)

Overview:

  • Requires that all work equipment, including lasers, is suitable, maintained, and used safely.

Key Provisions:

  • Regular inspection and maintenance of laser equipment.
  • Correct operation and training for all operators.
  • Installation of interlocks, beam stops, and warning systems.

Workplace Application Example:

  • CO₂ surgical laser:
    • Annual equipment inspection.
    • Maintenance of cooling system and optical components.
    • Operator training records maintained.

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH 2002)

Overview:

  • Regulates hazardous substances, including laser-generated plumes.

Key Provisions:

  • Assess health risks from plume inhalation.
  • Implement control measures such as LEV and PPE.
  • Ensure safe disposal and cleaning of contaminated equipment.

Workplace Application Example:

  • Surgical laser plume extraction in hospitals using LEV and masks.
  • COSHH risk assessment documented and reviewed annually.

Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992 (PPE Regs 1992)

Overview:

  • Requires provision and proper use of PPE to reduce exposure to hazards, including lasers.

Key Provisions:

  • Selection of laser-rated goggles specific to wavelength and optical density (OD).
  • Gloves and protective clothing for high-power laser operations.
  • Employers must train staff in PPE use.

Workplace Application Example:

  • Nd:YAG laser treatment room:
    • OD 5+ goggles for operators.
    • Lab coats, gloves, and proper footwear.
    • Signage reminding personnel to wear PPE at all times.

Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

Overview:

  • Requires employers to assess risks and implement measures to reduce them.

Key Provisions:

  • Mandatory risk assessments for laser hazards.
  • Assign responsibilities for laser safety management.
  • Review and update risk assessments regularly.

Workplace Application Example:

  • Industrial laser cutting environment:
    • Risk assessment identifies direct, reflected, and scattered beam hazards.
    • Control measures implemented: interlocks, signage, PPE, restricted access.

Safety Signs and Signals Regulations 1996

Overview:

  • Requires visible warning signs in hazardous areas, including laser-controlled areas.

Key Provisions:

  • Warning signs for Class 3B and Class 4 lasers.
  • Illuminated indicators when lasers are active.

Workplace Application Example:

  • Dermatology laser room:
    • Class 4 laser warning sign outside the room.
    • Red light indicator when laser is in operation.

Fire Safety Regulations

Overview:

  • Addresses fire hazards from high-power laser operations.

Key Provisions:

  • Class 4 laser operations require fire-resistant materials in the workspace.
  • Fire risk assessment, extinguishers, and emergency procedures mandatory.

Workplace Application Example:

  • Industrial fiber laser cutting:
    • Fire extinguisher nearby.
    • Flame-retardant curtains and training in fire response.

Learner Task

Instructions:

  1. Select five UK laws or standards from the table above. For each:
    • Explain its purpose in simple terms
    • Describe a practical workplace scenario where it applies
    • Explain how compliance reduces laser-related hazards
  2. Create a Laser Compliance Checklist:
    • Include equipment, PPE, controlled areas, risk assessments, and SOPs
    • Cross-reference with the relevant UK legislation
  3. Optional Exercise:
    • Produce a diagram linking legislation → hazard → control measure →workplace application for at least 5 key laws or standards.