Control measures shall be devised to reduce the possibility of exposure of
the eye and skin to hazardous laser radiation and to other hazards associated
with the operation of lasers and laser systems. This applies during normal operation
and maintenance by users, as well as by Manufacturers during the manufacture,
testing, alignment, servicing, etc., of lasers and laser systems.
There are four basic categories of controls useful in laser environments. These
are engineering controls, personal protective equipment, administrative and procedural
controls, and special controls. The controls to be reviewed here are based upon
the recommendations of the ANSI Z-136.1 standard.
The controls specified by the ANSI Z-136.1 standard have been rather universally
adopted by industry, medicine and government as the "user requirements" of lasers.
In general, the controls are rather easily implemented by the LSO.
For all users of lasers and laser systems, it is recommended that the minimum
radiation level be used for the required application. If levels higher than the
MPE are required, it is recommended that such higher powered lasers be "embedded"
in a Class I laser system configuration whenever feasible.
