Only qualified personnel are permitted to operate a regulated laser. The Approval Holder must determine the individual’s operational qualifications. Everyone who operates a laser must receive two categories of training: laboratory/system-specific training and Research Laboratory & Safety Services (RLSS) laser safety training.
Please see Radiation Safety Training for information on how to register, etc.
Laboratory Specific Training
The Approval Holder, or a trained radiation worker who is familiar with the laser/system, provides the laboratory specific training prior to the worker beginning use of that laser.
The training should consist of:
- Description of the laser system
- Review of operating procedures and emergency procedures
- Review of the Standard Operating Procedure for use, set-up and alignment, if applicable
- Selection and use of personal protective equipment, if required
- Identification and proper use of engineering controls
- Identification of administrative controls, including warning signs and lights
- Identification of non-laser safety hazards associated with the laser system
For Laser Controlled Areas in which multiple lasers/wavelengths operate, advising the worker of other laser and non-beam hazards associated with other systems.
Research Laboratory & Safety Services Training
The Laser Radiation Protection Course (LRPC) is required for personnel working with regulated lasers (Class 3b and 4).
Personnel working with other regulated uses of nonionizing radiation, such as magnetic fields, microwave, radiofrequency, ultraviolet, and high-intensity visible radiation should contact Research Laboratory & Safety Services to determine what training is required for non-laser nonionizing radiation producing devices.