Laser Accident Emergency Procedures

Last Updated: September 5, 2023 5:55:00 PM PDT

Learn what to do in the event of a laser accident.

Print the Emergency Procedures: Laser Accidents Poster (PDF) and post it near laser equipment.

In the event of a laser accident, do the following:

1. Shut down the laser system.

Turn off the power source.

Provide for the safety of personnel (first aid, evacuation, etc.). Seek medical assistance.

Laser injuries:

During normal business hours (8:00 — 4:30):
- If you are an employee of UC San Diego, contact Occupational Medicine Clinic, (858) 657-1600, and follow their instructions.
- If you are a student, refer to Student Health Services, (858) 534-3300, and follow their instructions.
- If you are unsure of your employment status, contact (858) 534-2454.
After normal business hours go to emergency/urgent care:
- Campus/La Jolla: Thornton Hospital, (858) 657-7600 (directions)
- Hillcrest: UC San Diego Medical Center, (619) 543-6222 (directions)

Important: Laser eye injuries should be evaluated by a physician as soon as possible.

If you need transportation assistance, call UC San Diego Police: (858) 534-4357 (534-HELP).

Inform your principal investigator of the accident as soon as possible.

Important: File an Incident Report within 1 business day after the accident. See What to Do if a Work-Related Injury, Illness, or Exposure Occurs for instructions.

Inform the UC San Diego Laser Safety Officer of the accident as soon as possible:

During normal business hours: (858) 822-2850 or (858) 822-2494
After normal business hours: UC San Diego Police Department, (858) 534-4357 (534-HELP)

For more information, contact EH&S Laser Safety, (858) 822-2850 or 822-2494.