Due to the wide variety of laser wavelengths used, different temporal modes, and open beam paths, laser safety in research, development and testing laboratories posses a unique challenge. Because of this challenge, the ANSI Z136.8 Safe Use of Lasers in Research, Development or Testing standard was developed. Many of the issues previously not addressed in the other laser safety standards have been addressed in this one. Now, a Laser Safety Officer (LSO) course exists that is based on the new ANSI Z136.8.  If you have been appointed as the Laser Safety Officer of a university, department of energy, or corporate research, development and testing laboratory then this course was made specifically for you!

This course is about providing the individual appointed as Laser Safety Officer with reasonable and adequate guidance for identifying laser hazards and implementing control measures for these hazards. The course is based on the newly released American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers in Research, Development, or Testing.

This course is tailored for individuals newly appointed as Laser Safety Officers and placed in charge of laser safety at corporate research laboratories, universities and colleges that are using lasers in graduate-level programs in physics, chemistry and electro-optics laboratories, as well as Department of Energy research laboratories.  In addition, current Laser Safety Officers at R & D laboratories and testing labs who would like a review or refresher course are encouraged to attend.

•  What the research, development and testing environment is and why it is unique
• Who are the parties responsible for laser safety
• What the duties of the LSO are as outlined in the ANSI Z136.8, Safe Use of Lasers in Research, Development, or Testing standard
• Traditional Laser basics as they pertain to laser safety, including non-linear optics, ultrafast lasers, diode, and fiber lasers
• The biological effects of a laser on the eye and skin
• Non-beam hazards (secondary hazards other than direct exposure to the laser beam)
• Regulations and relevant standards (Z136.1 and Z136.8)
• What the elements are of a laser-safety program
• How to design a safe laboratory (with examples)
• What tools are available for the control of laser hazards (with examples)

• Based on the new ANSI Z136.8, Safe Use of Lasers in Research, Development, or Testing standard, this course covers all the material a Laser Safety Officer needs to know in the safe use of lasers in the research and development environment.

• Given that research environments often feature “home-built” or modified lasers, the course will teach research LSOs how to characterize such devices, as well as give examples of how to set up labs and establish control measures to mitigate hazards.

• Learn the duties of the LSO, as well as traditional laser basics for the health and safety professional embarking on the role of LSO.

• Understand the elements of a sound safety program and how to respond to accidents.

Who will be teaching this course?

This course is taught by Ken Barat, former LSO of Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, and chairman of the Z136.8 subcommittee that crafted the ANSI Z136.8, for Safe Use of Lasers in Research, Development, or Testing standard.  This course will prepare you (the LSO) to oversee the safe use of laser systems in often times ad hoc situations.

How long is this course?

This course is two and a half days long and full of helpful information that will guide you in developing a sound laser safety program at your R & D facility.