Laser Safety Training

USER TRAINING

A long-established path to laser safety is training users and those working around lasers. Effective laser safety training is not just a review of laser safety principles but a cultural change in the students - one that the instructor and institution hope they embrace. They must understand that laser safety responsibility does not start and end with themselves but extends to all those working around them.

An example of this can be seen in society's acceptance of motor vehicle seat belt, a safety device that for a considerable period of time met with great user resistance. Today the use of seat belts is an automatic reflex for most drivers and passengers. This type of cultural change has still not happened among laser users.

It’s common for users to think that if anything happens, they alone will pay the price.

Traditional laser safety falls into three categories: users, the laser safety officer (LSO), and incidental personnel. LSO training is generally the same as or similar to the user group, but I would argue that these individuals need a greater level of safety training. User and LSO training is needed for the highest-class lasers available to the users at the facility the LSO is responsible for. Typical topics covered in laser safety training are the following:

1. Bioeffects of laser radiation on the eye and skin

2. Significance of specular and diffuse reflections

3. Laser and laser system classifications

4. Control measures

5. Overall responsibilities of management and employees

6. Fundamentals of laser operation (physical principles, construction, etc.)

7. Nonbeam hazards of lasers

8. Medical surveillance practices (if applicable)

Of these eight topics, a strong case can be made that the first five are critical to user. Training should be tailored to the type of lasers and wavelengths the user is expected to come in contact with. At an R&D facility, a comprehensive approach is well worth the time and effort.

In the classic mode, LSO training would also include:

1. Laser terminology

2. Types of lasers, wavelengths, pulse shapes, modes, and power and energy

3. Basic radiometric units and measurement devices

4. MPE levels

5. Laser hazard evaluations and other calculations

To obtain a higher professional level, an LSO's training should also include all the following:

1. Accident investigation

2. Technology updates germane to one's facility

3. Understanding of optics

4. Roles of regulatory agencies 7.2 AWARENESS TRAINING

Awareness training is usually developed for incidental staff, that is, people who may be around laser equipment but are unlikely to be exposed. That does not mean these people may not have a high perception of exposure. This perception issue should be a major concern to users and the LSO. More regulatory inspections are started by ill-informed workers' concerns that are sent to government agencies than by regularly scheduled audits.

Awareness training does not have to be a burden; rather it can be added to routine new-employee orientation, which most firms do. Such training can consist of a few slides about laser signs and warning lights, along with any restrictions in designated laser areas. If flash lamp light is a common occurrence, it should be explained to incidental staff so they don’t think they are being exposed to laser radiation.

Next we will discuss specialized awareness training on expanded beams and their new classifications.

----2.1 CLASS 1M, CLASS 2M, AND CLASS 3R AWARENESS TRAINING

This section covers optional training to users of class 1M, class 2M, and class 3R laser systems. What would be needed is a simple, brief program designed for easy implementation by persons other than LSOs or education instructors, such as first line supervisors. Potential topics could include:

1. Simple explanation of a laser

2. Comparison of laser light and ordinary light

3. Statement cautioning against intentional overcoming of the human aversion reaction and staring into a class 2 or class 2M laser beam

4. General explanation of the various lasers classifications

5. Description of the nature of near infrared (NIR) beams where applicable

6. Explanation of class 2, 2M, 1M and 3R lasers and the relative potential hazards of each

7. Explanation of the potential for collecting and focusing optics to increase the hazard

----3 ON-THE-JOB SAFETY TRAINING

Note that this text uses the term basic laser safety training. We use this term because laser users should receive on-the-job, specific orientation to the laser hazards in the areas they are to be working in. Without this specific training, they are not fully prepared for laser work. Learning how to turn on the laser equipment is not part of hazard orientation. Hazard orientation should cover items such as where stray reflections might be expected, how to use beam location devices, and strategy for beam containment. One might even have a system for procedure training prior to letting new employees work alone. This all takes valuable equipment and research time. Each worker should be well trained to perform his or her job tasks.

----4 EXPLORING TRAINING OPTIONS

Traditional basic laser safety training has been conducted in a classroom-style presentation. Technology today gives the LSO several options on how to present laser safety information. These include videotapes, computer-based training (pre recorded CDs), text-based and Web-based (also known as computer assisted) training, and lecture. Each of these have pros and cons.

----4.1 VIDEO and YOUTUBE

While this method of training is seen less and less, it’s still viable. Its benefit is flexibility of access. Drawbacks are that videos cannot be updated and in most cases are too generic and cover too much material but not enough of the users' applications. It’s strongly recommended that a paper test be given along with the tape. The tape and test combination has several strong points; it provides proof of understanding, and if there is a language comprehension problem, it should be revealed. The test may force the user to observe the video more than once. One last advantage to some LSOs is that they don’t have to do the presentation.

----4.2 TEXT-BASED TRAINING

This involves giving out a booklet with pertinent laser safety information. This can be customized and updated as needed. The handout can also serve as a reference source. Once again, an examination is recommended to accompany the handout. The document should be sent to the LSO for grading and to trend areas of lack of understanding. Don’t distribute a handout and only require people to sign off that they have read it; this is a recipe for ineffective training.

----4.3 COMPUTER-BASED TRAINING

This is very similar to video training, but sometimes it can be edited. It offers flexibility and results can be linked to a central training system. The draw backs are that computer presentations are hard to edit, and once again are generally too generic. They don’t allow the student to raise questions. Also, students' attention sometime wanes. This is why an examination is advantageous.

----4.4 WEB-BASED TRAINING

The success of Web-based courses rests with the skills and imagination of the computer support staff who create the course and the technology knowledge of the subject matter expert who supplies the information. The technology is avail able to make such a course interactive and engage the student. Once again, an exam is required.

----4.5 LECTURE (CLASSROOM STYLE) TRAINING

While this can be the most effective means of laser safety training, it has several pitfalls and drawbacks. The most common objection to a lecture class is time: time for the class and the cost of students' time away from their duties. Another difficulty is language barriers, but this approach, if taught by the LSO, allows the LSO and the users to meet and ask questions of each other and make a connection.

One item that is recognized by standard bodies is how trainer qualifications are ensured or checked. This can only be done by having someone from management or training audit the course and help the instructor improve his or her technique.

----5 NEW TRAINING SUGGESTION: A LASER LESSONS LEARNED CLASS

The concept of this type of class was first presented at the International Laser Safety Conference in 2005. The object of the laser lessons learned course is not to repeat the Web course but to present laser-related lessons learned to your staff.

In this author's opinion, lessons learned is the strongest safety reinforcement one can present to the laser use community. It can show how a practice that might be common to laser users can lead to a dramatic injury and a programmatic long term work stoppage.

The course outline is as follows:

• Whom accidents happened to

• Commonly given reasons for violating laser safety procedures

• A review of perception incidents

• A review of several laser accidents

• What to do if an injury is suspected and what we can do about injuries

• Discussion of whether laser accidents can be stopped

•Summation

Such a class will receive positive feedback from experienced and inexperienced laser users. The class draws out comments from laser users on the times and reasons laser safety practices were not followed. Major laser accidents that relate to a research setting are discussed, along with who is involved in accidents.

The examples used state where the accidents happen and the specification of the lasers. All this is done to clearly relate to our users the common elements between their laser use practices and those involved in the accidents.

The examples presented in the class show how other laser users have been involved in laser incidents and explain deviations from laser safety practice and the consequences, including the consequences to individuals and programs. Most importantly, the class discusses how compliance with existing protocols would have prevented the incidents. While basic and refresher laser safety training courses are important, learning how others have been injured makes a lasting impression. As our laser use changes, the class is flexible enough to use lessons learned from these new applications and directions. A class dedicated to laser lessons learned is a successful means to laser safety.

"Experience is not what happens to a man. It’s what a man does with what happens to him." Aldous Huxley

----6 REFRESHER TRAINING

A lessons learned class could be considered a refresher class. The goal of a refresher class is not to require users retake the basic class every few years, but rather to receive a laser safety booster shot. This is an ideal application of Web based or computer-based training. One is looking for a short presentation or reminder of laser safety issues. Opinions on frequency vary, from every 2 years for radiation training to 3 to 5 years. Which is best is best determined by someone familiar with the user population.

----7 LASER QUIZZES

We have already mentioned the value of laser quizzes to determine comprehension of or alertness to a training mechanism. If fewer than 100% or your laser users pass your laser safety course, you should give feedback to students who either fail or get some questions wrong. The feedback can be in the form of a memo that highlights the questions they got wrong and explains the correct answer. One could start the memo by indicating there was a miscommunication or that the student did not understand the issues and supply the rationale for the correct answer.

If many laser users get the same question(s) wrong, this is a call for the LSO to review the material and see how the information can be made clearer. Below are a number of basic laser safety sample questions.

----7.1 SAMPLE QUESTIONS

1. Which class of laser presents the greatest hazard?

a. Class 1

b. Class 2

c. Class 3b

d. Class 4

2. Ultraviolet radiation biological effects:

a. Exhibit a delayed effect

b. Occur immediately

c. Have no negative affects

d. Only affect fair skinned people

3. Traditionally, which control measure is most effective?

a. Administrative

b. Procedures

c. Engineering

d. Protective equipment

4. Class 2 lasers must be invisible.

a. True

b. False

c. Makes no difference

d. I am color blind, cannot tell

5. ANSI stands for:

a. American National Standards Institution

b. All Natural Standards Institute

c. American National Standards Institute

d. Allstate Nation Standard Ignition

6. The laser safety officer position:

a. Is a recommended position

b. Must be full time

c. Must be on-site at all times lasers are used

d. Can be part time

7. A requirement for Class 3b and 4 laser users:

a. Is training

b. Is training and medical surveillance

c. Is medical surveillance

d. Is mediation

8. ANSI Z136.1 title is:

a. Safe use of lasers in medical facilities

b. Safe use of lasers outdoors

c. Safe use of lasers

d. Safe use of lasers in communications

9. Which agency is responsible for setting laser safety product codes?

a. OSHA

b. Cal-OSHA

c. CDRH

d. DOE

10. All laser safety eyewear must at a minimum labeled be with its:

a. Effective wavelength

b. Effective optical density

c. Wavelength range and optical density

d. Manufacturer's code

11. An ultrafast laser pulse will have what effect on laser eyewear?

a. None

b. Go right through

c. A portion may bleach through

d. Combust

12. Laser accidents most commonly occur during which activity?

a. Normal operation

b. Service

c. Alignment

d. Maintenance

13. Keeping spare optics on optical tables is:

a. Recommended

b. A potential source of unplanned reflections

c. An easy storage strategy

d. The way it will always be

14. Laser door interlocks provide safety to:

a. The laser user

b. Unauthorized users

c. No one

d. Wandering pets

15. The retina generally is not exposed to what kind of radiation:

a. Visible

b. Ultraviolet

c. Near infrared

d. a and c

16. The signal words on laser warning signs are:

a. Caution, Notice, Danger

b. Caution, Beware, Danger

c. Unattended, Danger, Caution

d. Laser on, Laser off

17. The majority of laser operator deaths are result of:

a. Overeating

b. Flooding

c. Robotic error

d. Electrocution

18. List four nonbeam hazards:

a. _____________________________

b. _____________________________

c. _____________________________

d. _____________________________

19. List three good practices during laser alignment:

a. _______________________________________

b. _______________________________________

c. _______________________________________

20. "Laser Danger" warning signs are what color?

a. Blue

b. Yellow

c. Green

d. Red 21. As a rule of thumb, which has the greatest nominal hazard zone?

a. Direct viewing

b. Specular reflection

c. Diffuse reflection

d. Backward reflection

22. Laser safety training is required for users of which class of laser(s)?

a. Class 1

b. Class 2

c. Class 3a

d. Class 4

23. Might a temporary control area be needed around a Class 1 laser product?

a. Yes

b. No

24. Can OSHA's lock-out tag-out rules impact laser use?

a. Yes

b. No

25. Which is an engineering control?

a. Laser eyewear

b. Protective housing interlocks

c. Warning signs

d. Standard operating procedures

26. The retina generally is exposed to what kind of radiation?

a. Visible wavelengths

b. Far infrared wavelengths

c. Near infrared wavelengths

d. a and c

----8 THE TRAINING MATRIX Laser users join and leave the R&D group, and new training requirements arise.

How does the principal investigator keep on top of this fluid situation? One answer is a training matrix. A matrix such as the one shown is a visual means to determine if training is current and if the list of laser users is complete.

----9 LASER POINTER AWARENESS

Laser pointers seem to go in and out of the headlines. Just when one thinks pointers no longer require any attention, they hit the news again. Therefore, if laser pointer awareness education is determined to be desirable, suggested topics can include:

1. Simple explanation of a laser

2. Comparison of differences between laser light and ordinary light

3. Precautions for use

4. Effects of exposures

5. Misuse

6. FDA warning on misuse of pointers

7. FDA limit of 5 mW

8. Local ordinance limitations

Illustrating the seriousness of laser pointer safety, here is a December 18, 1997 , posting from the CDRH web page (http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/ NEWS/NEW00609.html).

FDA Issues Warning on Misuse of Laser Pointers

The Food and Drug Administration is warning parents and school officials about the possibility of eye damage to children from hand-held laser pointers.

These products are generally safe when used as intended by teachers and lecturers to highlight areas on a chart or screen. However, recent price reductions have led to wider marketing, and FDA is concerned about the promotion and use of these products as children's toys.

The light energy that laser pointers can aim into the eye can be more damaging than staring directly into the sun. Federal law requires a warning on the product label about this potential hazard to the eyes.

"These laser pointers are not toys. Parents should treat them with the appropriate care," said FDA Lead Deputy Commissioner Michael A. Fried man, M.D. "They are useful tools for adults that should be used by children only with adequate supervision." FDA's warning is prompted by two anecdotal reports it has received of eye injury from laser pointers - one from a parent, the other from an ophthalmologist. Momentary exposure from a laser pointer, such as might occur from an inadvertent sweep of the light across a person's eyes, causes only temporary flash blindness. However, even this can be dangerous if the exposed person is engaged in a vision-critical activity such as driving.

Green pointers have added to the pointer safety confusion that may come up in training sessions. Once again from the FDA:

FDA is concerned about recent reports of laser products directed at aircraft - a potentially hazardous situation. The agency is particularly concerned about the increased availability of overpowered green laser pointers. Overpowered green laser pointers are those that may have been modified to emit more radiation than the manufacturer's original product.

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Above: Fig. 1 Training compliance chart (training matrix).

Training Matrix SOP # or Lab Name Compliance code NC Required, not compliant This matrix list all authorized user of lasers in this lab. Date entered when taken In addition all required training courses are listed NA Not required by person It’s role of PI to confirm training and see staff has taken Check for course expiration required training. Some staff can be excluded from some courses based on their work activities Sample course listing Date form generated Annual review user list Eye exam Waste H. H. Com.

Pressure Safety Lasers Capacitors Electrical High Voltage Lock & Tag Energized Equip.