General Basic Precautions:
The LSO shall be notified of the purchase of any laser, regardless of the class.
Such notification should include the classification, media, output power or pulse
energy, wavelength, repetition rate (if applicable), special attachments (frequency
doublers...etc.), beam size at the laser aperture, beam divergence and users.
No attempt shall be made to place any shiny or glossy object into the laser
beam other than that for which the equipment is specifically designed.
Eye protection devices which are designed for protection against radiation
from a specific laser system shall be used when engineering controls are inadequate
to eliminate the possibility of potentially hazardous eye exposure (i.e., whenever
levels of accessible emission exceed the appropriate MPE levels.) This generally
applies only to Class IIIB and Class IV lasers. All laser protective eyewear shall
be clearly labeled with optical density values and wavelengths for which protection
is afforded.
Skin protection can best be achieved through engineering controls. If the potential
exists for damaging skin exposure, particularly for ultraviolet lasers (200-400
nm), then skin covers and or "sun screen" creams are recommended.
HANDS - Most gloves will provide some protection against laser radiation. Tightly
woven fabrics and opaque gloves provide the best protection.
ARMS - A laboratory jacket or coat can provide protection for the arms. For
Class IV lasers, consideration should be given to flame resistant materials.
