Laser Registration and Inspection
Based on a
building-wide
inventory
Judi Reilly and
Meg Himmel
Why
• During prior Level II inspections
– Observed numerous unregistered lasers
– Follow-up with researchers and LSO
time-consuming, unsatisfactory
• Therefore
– Scheduled building-wide laser inventory
The Details
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Identified laser user(s) in all 25 PI groups
Recorded laser-specific information
Completed laser hazard evaluation
Registered only:
– Class 3b - 5mW to 500 mW
– Class 4 - >500mW
– Class 1 - completely enclosed beam, NO alignment
done by researchers.
• 80 mW Diode
• Class 3b
• Open beam
Class 4, Ti Sapphire, 4 Watt
Results of Laser Inventory
• Doubled the number of lasers registered to
~100
• Increased user awareness for
– Correct goggles
– Signage
– Training requirement
– SOP posting
– Laser System Reclassification
• Very positive feedback from users
Results of Laser Inventory, cont.
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Inventory is now complete and accurate
Real-time hazard evaluation and registration
Re-classification is documented
Appropriate eye wear is available
Signage is correct
Gained understanding of variables
Going Forward
• This process can replace Level II laser
inspection
– To be done twice annually
– Next round will be less time-consuming
– Laser locations are now known
– Researchers continue to update inventory
On-Line Registration
Risk Analysis/Laser Hazard Evaluation
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Interview the user
See the set-up and environment
Review use of the laser system
Future use options
Open/closed beam (many beams)
Actual wavelengths used
Document the operation in the SOP
Option- reclassifcation of 3b/4 to Class1 system
Two Photon Microscope
Beam Evaluation
Open table optics
Enclosed secured table optics
Two Photon Microscope
Beam Evaluation
Open Beam
Closed Beam
Warning Light and
Door Sign Posting
Appropriate Eye Wear
– Eye wear must be labeled with wavelengths and
corresponding OD
– OD required is determined by LSO
– OD for direct beam, diffuse beam, and alignment
have different ODs
EYEWEAR LABELS
All eyewear must be labeled with wavelength and optical density.
Laser Standard Operating Procedure
Class 4 Laser SOP
•This SOP applies to the 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser which is frequency doubled (532 nm)
for this experiment.
•Only laser workers who have completed the EHS Laser Safety training (EHS Course
371) and have been given laser specific training may use this laser.
•To be trained in the specific use of this laser, contact (lab person’s name) at lab
person’s name@mit.edu or 3-xxxx
•Before beginning an alignment procedure or propagating the laser beam, verify that:
1.The lab doors are closed and locked.
2.The laser curtains are covering the windows on the lab doors and the lab
windows.
3.The laser warning light is illuminated.
4.The curtain isolating the lab entry is in place.
5.All people in the lab are wearing appropriate laser protective eyewear.
Remember the frequency doubled wavelength is 532 nm. Requires OD 4 @ 532
nm.
6.The beam path is free of obstructions
7.If making adjustments to beam path, all jewelry (rings, watches) have been
removed.
•For laser beam alignment, please use the laser specific alignment SOPS
•In the event of an emergency, immediately turn off the laser main power supply
In the event of an emergency involving fire or a medical emergency requiring an
ambulance, dial 100 to contact the MIT Police to request assistance.
In the event of a suspected exposure to laser radiation, please report to the
medical department for an evaluation..
Registration Signage
Team Effort to Laser Safety!!!!