How to Get a Laser Use Authorization (LUA)

Principal investigators (PIs) who acquire or fabricate class 3B or 4 lasers or laser systems must obtain a Laser Use Authorization (LUA).

• Submit the form requesting your authorization:
  • Print and complete a Laser Use Authorization.
  • Mail or fax the form to EH&S Laser Safety:
    • Mail Code: 0089
    • Fax: (858) 822-7763
• Read Requirements for Class 3B and 4 Lasers for information you need to know about UCSD's Laser Safety Program.
• Renew your LUA annually after initial approval. The EH&S Laser Safety Officer (LSO) will notify PIs when renewals are due.

Personnel who will use lasers must enroll in the Laser Safety Program and have appropriate training to safely operate equipment.

• Submit a form for each individual who will operate laser equipment under your LUA.
  • Print and complete a Laser Use Enrollment Application form.
  • Mail or fax the form to EH&S Laser Safety:
    • Mail Code: 0089
    • Fax: (858) 822-7763

Class 3B and 4 lasers and laser systems must be registered with Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S). This includes all lasers owned by UCSD campus or operated by personnel on UCSD campus payroll.

• Register all class 3B and 4 lasers within UCSD campus jurisdiction with EH&S prior to initial use.

• Print and complete a Laser Safety Equipment Registration Application (PDF) (Word file).
• Mail or fax the form to EH&S Laser Safety:
  • Mail Code: 0089
  • Fax: (858) 822-7763

• Amend your LUA when you:
  • Delete personnel authorized to use laser equipment
  • Change the project summary
  • Add or delete a registered laser
  • Add or delete a laser location
  • Transfer a laser listed on your LUA to a different LUA or PI
• Use the online Laser Use Authorization Amendment form.

• Contact the EH&S Laser Safety Officer, (858) 822-2850, to inactivate your LUA.
• PIs who will be on sabbatical or other leave should designate an Alternate Responsible User via LUA amendment to maintain an active LUA.
  • LUAs that are inactive for more than 1 year will be deactivated.
  • An inactive LUA laboratory may not energize any class 3B or 4 lasers without prior notice for inspection and approval by the EH&S Laser Safety Officer.
  • Reactivation of an LUA within the 1 year period will be processed as an amendment.