Chapter 10: Laser Safety

The purpose of this program is to mitigate the hazards posed by optical lasers, which operate at wavelengths between 180 nm and 1 mm. High-power lasers (Class 3B and Class 4) are used at SLAC in research and accelerator operations. The primary hazard associated with their operation is potential eye damage; other potential hazards include skin burns, electrical currents, explosions, fires, toxic material, laser-generated air contaminants, collateral radiation, noise, and ultraviolet light. Low-power lasers (Class 2 and Class 3R) include laser pointers and alignment lasers; they are safe when used as intended, but require some controls.

This program covers the setup and operation of high-power lasers, encompassing operation approval of laser controlled areas (LCAs), approval of system laser safety officers (SLSOs) assigned to the LCAs, and approval for two classes of laser workers: qualified laser operators (QLOs) and laser controlled area workers (LCA workers). It also covers the operation of low-power lasers.

It applies to workers who use low-power lasers, operate high-power lasers, or may access facilities where such lasers operate; their line management, supervisors, points of contact, project managers, and ESH coordinators; and laser facility program managers, SLSOs, directorate laser leads, the laser safety officer (LSO), and Occupational Health and Purchasing.

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