About Laser Safety
Last updated
September 9, 2009 8:52:38 AM PDT
Learn about UCSD's Laser Safety Program requirements and responsibilities for researchers working with lasers or laser systems.
UCSD's Laser Safety Program describes institutional and employee responsibilities for safe use of lasers and laser systems under UCSD campus jurisdiction and provides:
Controls required by UCSD's Laser Safety Program are determined by the hazard classification of a laser or laser system and how and where it will be used.
This program meets the requirements of the American National Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers (ANSI Z136.1 – 2007).
Institutional and individual responsibilities
- UCSD's Laser Safety Committee advises the Chancellor on laser safety issues, recommends and establishes UCSD policy, and has institutional authority to approve or rescind an investigator's authorization to work with lasers.
- Principal investigators (PIs) with class 3B or 4 lasers or laser systems must have a Laser Use Authorization (LUA) before beginning work. The PI is ultimately responsible for adhering to UCSD's requirements for Class 3B and 4 lasers.
- Environment, Health & Safety's (EH&S) Laser Safety Officer (LSO) is responsible for laser safety services that include consulting, evaluating, auditing, and enforcing the control of laser hazards.
Auditing LUA compliance
- EH&S will conduct an annual audit of activities and areas under each LUA.
- If an audit identifies deficiencies, corrective action must be taken within 30 days of being notified.
- Deficiencies that constitute an imminent safety hazard must be corrected prior to the next use of the laser or laser system.
- The PI, LSO, or Area Safety Coordinator may request additional audits.
Related policies
- California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 3382 – General Industry Safety Orders, Eye and Face Protection
- California Code of Regulations, Title 8, Section 3203 – General Industry Safety Orders, Injury & Illness Prevention Program
Additional information
