Local Rules For Working with Lasers AUGUST 2002 V 1.3 (Reviewed April 2015)
Contents Introduction 3 Laser Safety Management Structure 3 List of Laser Areas in the Wolfson Institute 4 Departmental Laser Supervisor Duties 5 Group Leader Duties 5 Laser Worker Duties 6 Training 7 Laser Classification System 8 Personal Protective Equipment 9 Safe Laser Use Protocol 11 Laser Accidents 12 Other Hazards Incidental to Laser Operation 13 Ten Commandments for Working Safely with Lasers 14 Further Information... 16 2
Introduction This document constitutes the local rules for working with lasers in the Wolfson Institute for Biomedical Research and is based on the UCL arrangements for the safe use of laser devices. This document functions as an addition to the Division of Medicine Code of Practice (COP) and Statement of Safety Policy (DSSP) and should be read in conjunction with the COP, DSSP and the UCL Laser Safety manuals. These local rules do not stand-alone and should only form part of an induction/training process for new people working with class 2 lasers or above, which would also include: Meeting the Wolfson Institute Departmental Laser Supervisor (DLS) On-machine training by supervisor or company Working with laser under supervision until considered competent by line manager and DLS Laser Safety Management Structure College Laser Safety Advisor Dr Peter Marsden (ext 46455) UCL Laser Safety Officer Mr Brian Kavanagh (ext 28850) Wolfson Institute Departmental Laser Supervisor Dr Robert Francis (ext 47600) Laser supervisor for Circuit Neuroscience only Dr Christian Wilms (ext 40803) Wolfson Institute Director Prof. Bill Richardson (ext 46729) Division of Medicine Safety Advisor Mrs Roberta Perelli (ext 46604) 3
List of Rooms containing Lasers above Class 2 in the Wolfson Institute (Dec 2006) Room 1.1.14 - Designated laser controlled area - Contains a combined Er:YAG/Nd:YAG laser and a Nitrogen laser, both are classified as Class 4 lasers. - Access to the controlled room is under the control of the DLS. - Access to the main Ludwig wing is controlled by a cardax swipe card system. Room 1.4.11 - Coherent UV Laser - Mellesgriot 488 air-cooled laser - Helium Neon air-cooled laser - All are classified as Class 4, but with current engineering controls in place, classified as Class 1. Room is kept locked when no users present. Authorised Personnel for laser work are: - Tomas Adejumo - Other WIBR personnel as trained and considered competent by Tomas Adejumo Room 2.2.01 - Argon Ion - This is classified as Class 3B Authorised Personnel for laser work are: - Michael Hausser - Other WIBR personnel as trained and considered competent by Michael Hausser Room 2.2.02 - Spectra-Physics MaiTai laser - This is classified as Class 4, but with current engineering controls in place, classified as Class 1 Authorised Personnel for laser work are: - Michael Hausser - Other WIBR personnel as trained and considered competent by Michael Hausser Room 2.2.07 - Spectra-Physics MaiTai laser - This is classified as Class 4, but with current engineering controls in place, classified as Class 1 Authorised Personnel for laser work are: - Michael Hausser - Other WIBR personnel as trained and considered competent by Michael Hausser 4
Room 2.2.08 - Spectra-Physics MaiTai laser - Fiber laser - These are classified as Class 4, Authorised Personnel for laser work are: - Michael Hausser - Other WIBR personnel as trained and considered competent by Michael Hausser Room 4.2.12 - Spectra-Physics MaiTai laser - This is classified as Class 4, but with current engineering controls in place, classified as Class 1 Authorised Personnel for laser work are: - Michael Hausser - Other WIBR personnel as trained and considered competent by Michael Hausser 5
Departmental Laser Supervisor Duties A Departmental Laser Supervisor (DLS) will be knowledgeable of education and training requirements for laser safety, the potential laser hazards and associated control measures for all lasers under the authority of the DLS. The DLS will be familiar with the general operating procedures of lasers under their control and will be available to advise all laser workers on the following points: 1. The safe operation of the lasers or laser systems (see Appendix 1 - Laser Safety Training Induction). 2. The assessment of risks associated with laser work and the filling in of the UCL Laser risk assessment form. 3. Appropriate control measures to reduce risks to the lowest level reasonably practicable. 4. The purchase of suitable and appropriate eye protection and protective clothing. 5. Operating procedures and local rules for laser work within the WIBR. Group Leader Duties 1. Will ensure that if the worker is to be operating Class 3 or Class 4 lasers that they complete prior to work a UCL Laser risk assessment form (after advice from the DLS). 2. Will ensure that all personnel working with lasers have undergone sufficient and suitable training on the type of laser(s) that they will be working with. 3. Will ensure that suitable and appropriate eye protection and protective clothing is available and worn by the laser worker. 4. Will ensure that appropriate control measures are incorporated to reduce risks to the lowest level reasonably practicable. 5. Will ensure that all laser workers are aware of the reporting procedure known or suspected accidents to their DLS and the Institute Safety Advisor. 6. Will ensure that standard operating procedures and local rules are written, enforced and available to laser workers under their supervision and enforce any local rules and standards prescribed by the DLS and the Wolfson Institute. 7. Will ensure that all laser systems (incl. instrumentation with lasers) under their control are not operated or modified without the approval from the DLS. (Please note: Approval by the DLS does not necessarily constitute the general overall safety of the instrument s operation!) 8. Will ensure that all administrative and engineering controls are followed. 9. Will enforce any local rules and standards prescribed by the DLS and the Wolfson Institute. 6
Laser Worker Duties The users of laser equipment are primarily responsible for the safety of both themselves and of any other persons who may be affected by their actions. All laser workers: 1. Will read and take note of the relevant laser risk assessment for their work. 2. Will comply with any local rules and standards prescribed by the DLS and the Wolfson Institute. 3. Will be familiar with standard operating procedures and specific safety hazards of lasers they are operating or working in close proximity to. 4. Will not operate a Class 3 or Class 4 laser unless authorized by the DLS 5. Will report known or suspected accidents to their DLS and the Institute Safety Advisor. 6. Will forbid access to controlled area unless a known authorised worker for that area. 7. Will ensure that all engineers and visitors are properly informed of and protected from all potential laser hazards. 8. Will ensue that a UCL permit to work (permit D) has been completed for all visiting engineers, and where required JFM staff. These are available from JFM (ext 48666). 7
Training Operation of laser systems can present a hazard not only to the user but also to other people over a considerable distance. Because of this potential hazard, only persons who have received training to an appropriate level (as determined by the DLS and the workers line manager) should be placed in control of such systems. The training should include, but is not limited to: Meeting the Wolfson Institute Departmental Laser Supervisor (DLS) Familiarisation with systems operating procedures The proper use of hazard control procedures, warning signs etc. The need for personal protective equipment Working with the laser under supervision until considered competent by workers line manager or DLS, as appropriate. Accident reporting procedures Biological effects of the laser on the eye and skin. Physical effects on substances e.g. ignition of explosives or melting/burning of plastics 8
Laser Classification System The acronym LASER stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. This is a devise to produce an intense beam of monochromatic and coherent electromagnetic waves. All lasers are classified by the manufacturer and labelled with the appropriate warning labels.. The current classification system classifies lasers as Class 1 and 1M Class 2 and 2M Class 3R and 3B Class 4. Additional information on Laser classification can be obtained from UCL laser safety manuals and the British standard BS EN 6085. 9
Personal Protective Equipment Personal protective equipment is vital to protect the worker from damage to eyes and skin. Protective Eyewear Protective eyewear should be: - Comfortable to wear - Provide as wide a field of view as possible - Maintain a close fit - Provide adequate ventilation to avoid problems of misting up - Provide adequate visual transmittance Care should be taken to avoid flat reflecting surfaces as they might cause hazardous specular reflections. It is important that the frame and any sidepieces should also provide equivalent protection to that provided by the lenses Eye protection must be suitable and sufficient for the particulate laser devise used and the purpose it is used for. The following should be considered when providing suitable protective eyewear: Is eye protection required by risk assessment for the specific application? The wavelengths(s) of the operation The radiant exposure The maximum possible exposure (MPE). This is defined as the level of laser radiation to which a person may be exposed without hazardous effect or adverse biological changes in the eye or skin. The MPE is calculated to also take account of the laser wavelength and exposure duration. The optical density of eyewear at laser output wavelength. The visible light transmission requirements; specific to the application the eyewear is intended for. The radiant exposure or irradiance at which damage to eyewear occurs The need for prescription protective eyewear specific to individual users The requirement for comfort and ventilation Any degradation or modification of absorbing media, even if temporary or transient. The strength of materials (resistance to shock, thermal or physical) Peripheral vision requirements Relevant legal regulations i.e. CE marked Eye protection should always be used in areas where Class 3 or Class 4 lasers are in use unless engineering and administrative controls are in place that eliminate potential exposure in excess of the MPE. It is for the line manager in co-operation with the DLS to assess these controls. You have only 1 pair of eyes look after them! 10
Protective Clothing It is good laboratory practice to always wear a laboratory coat while working. If personnel are to be exposed to levels of radiation that exceed the MPE for the skin then a suitable laboratory coat and protective gloves or full body protective clothing MUST be worn. Class 4 lasers are a potential fire hazard and it is advisable to choose protective clothing made from a suitable flame and heat resisting material. 11
Safe Laser Use Protocol 1. DO NOT USE THE LASER EQUIPMENT UNTIL YOU HAVE RECEIVED INSTRUCTION No one must use laser equipment until they have received instruction and information from their Manager/Supervisor. 2. DO NOT LET THE LASER BEAM HIT YOUR EYE Do not look directly into a laser beam or view directly the laser beam with optical instruments. Avoid eye or skin exposure to direct or scattered radiation. Wear appropriate protection eyewear. Keep the room lights on brightly if possible. Locate and eliminate all stray beams. Clamp down all components as appropriate. Keep laser beams horizontal as appropriate. Never bend down below Laser beam height. Never sit with your head at Laser beam height. 3. OTHER PREVENTATIVE MEASURES No one must work alone. Wear suitable and adequate personal protection equipment. Never leave operating Laser equipment unattended. Switch off Laser equipment at the mains when not in use. Do not clutter Laser area with flammable materials and solvents. Laser equipment must be inspected annually by the Supplier. Do not use faulty equipment until it is repaired and declared safe to use by the Supplier. Ensure the area for laser work is well ventilated if cryogenic materials are used to cool the equipment; If necessary, install oxygen depletion monitors to provide advanced warning of potential development of oxygen deficiency. 4. REPORT PROBLEMS Staff must report problems arising from the use of the laser to their Manager/Supervisor and/or Departmental Laser Safety Supervisor. 12
Laser Accidents All known and suspected accidents and incidents must be reported immediately to the DLS and the Institute Safety Advisor. A UCL accident form should be completed and returned to the Institute Safety Advisor Laser workers must be aware who their registered first aider is. In the event of an accident and there is no one available then the worker should immediately report to the casualty department of University College Hospital, Grafton Way. The potential for injury to the different structures of the eye depends upon which structure absorbs the energy. Laser radiation may damage the cornea, lens or retina of the eye depending on the wavelength, intensity of the radiation and the absorption characteristics of different eye tissues. Skin effects will be variable depending on the wavelength and whether radiation is being emitted in the visible, ultraviolet or infrared regions Below is a table that summarises the interaction of optical radiation and harm that can occur to various tissues Accident statistics show that the majority of laser related accidents are due to alignment procedures or using the incorrect eyewear. You have only 1 pair of eyes look after them! 13
Chemical Hazards Other Hazards Incidental to Laser Operation a. Compressed gases care should be taken when using cylinders of compressed gas. b. Fumes from lasing of target material or from by-products of laser reactions must be considered and eliminated c. Laser dyes or solvents may be toxic or carcinogenic and should be handled appropriately d. Gases or vapours from cryogenic coolers Electrical Hazards a. Power supplies high voltage precautions should be designed to prevent electrocution. b. Pulsed lasers are especially dangerous as they store energy in their capacitor banks c. Voltages greater than 15 kv may generate X-rays Explosion Hazards a. Lamps and capacitor banks should be enclosed or protected to avoid injury to personnel in the event of an explosion. b. Personnel should be protected should lasing of the target material create fling fragments. Cryogenic Coolants Cryogenic liquids may cause burns and require special handling precautions refer to Wolfson safety policy. Fire Hazards Electrical components, gases, fumes and dyes can constitute a fire hazard. Use of flammables should be avoided and where necessary flame resistant enclosures should be used. Materials Processing Specifications for laser products used to process materials may vary according to their intended use. If the users wish to process materials other than those recommended by the manufacturers, the users must make themselves aware of the different degree of risk associated the processing of such materials and take appropriate precautions to prevent additional hazards e.g. emission of toxic fumes, fire, explosion or refection of laser radiation from the workplace. 14
Ten Commandments for Working Safely with Lasers 1. Do not look into a laser beam Don t look down specular reflections (e.g. from reflective surfaces). Don t stare at diffuse reflections. If it looks bright don t stare at it. 2. Keep room lights on brightly if possible The brighter the ambient lighting level, the smaller the eye s will become and the less chance of a laser beam hitting it. 3. Remove all personal jewellery Watches and rings etc. act as reflectors. Remove anything that may pose a reflection hazard when entering a laser laboratory; this is to protect you and your co-workers. Do this for even low power lasers so that you can get into good habits when using higher power lasers. 4. Locate and terminate all stray beams Make sure all stray beams are terminated with a matt, diffuse beam dump that can handle the power of the laser beam. 5. Clamp all components securely Double clamp optical components this helps prevent your experiment from becoming misaligned and reduces the chances of a component moving and sweeping a laser beam over you. 6. Keep beams horizontal Horizontal beams are usually easier to work with and more predictable. Avoid vertical and skew beams if possible. Change beam height with a periscope and be careful from aligning it. 7. Don t bend down below beam height If you drop something, block the laser beam at the laser before picking the object up. If you can t stop the beam exposure, kick the object out of the way so that that you don t trip over it! If you must sit down in the laser room. Make sure that the chair is high enough, so that your head is above beam height. 8. Remember optical components reflect, transmit and absorb light Often a transmitting component will also reflect light; a reflecting component will also transmit light. This can lead to stray beams. Be aware that optical components can change their optical characteristics when used with high power lasers e.g. neutral density filters can bleach or even crack/explode. 9. Don t forget non-optical hazards Don t trip over (especially as a result of aversion response) Electrocute yourself Spill chemicals Start a fire 15
Burn yourself on cryogenic liquids 10. Wear laser safety eye protection If goggles are provided, wear them. If you think goggles should be provided, see your line manager or the DLS. If in doubt find out! 16
Further Information Further information and advice on the use of lasers and more specifically when designing a controlled laser area can be found from: a. The UCL Laser Control Officer (Brian Kavanagh, ext 28850) b. UCL Laser Guidance webpage: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/estates/safetynet/guidance/lasers/index.htm c. The CVCP publication Safety in Universities: Notes of Guidance, Part 2:1 Lasers (http://phyweb.phys.soton.ac.uk/quantum/documents/cvcp.pdf ). This is an interpretation of a British Standard (BS EN 60825:1992) d. European Union Standards on the use and safety of laser equipment. e. British Standard on the use and safety of laser equipment. These documents are the UK implementation of the European union standards. The current standard for users working with lasers is BS EN 60825 1994 Safety of Laser Products. 17
Appendix 1. Laser Use Local Training Induction UCL Division of Medicine- Wolfson Institute of Biomedical Research Name: Laser(s): Induction given by: Date: Location: Supervisor: Suitable eye protection must be worn as specified in the operating instructions. Hazardous operations may only be carried out when there is at least one person available to give assistance in case of an accident. Any accident involving exposure of personnel to laser light must be reported immediately to the Departmental Laser Supervisor and Divisional Safety Advisor. High power lasers are a substantial fire risk Do not introduce unnecessary flammable materials and solvents into the immediate vicinity of the laser. Prior to working with lasers all new users must be given local laser safety training covering the following areas: Confirm you have completed/read the relevant laser risk assessment Trainee to initial each section Confirm you have read the UCL arrangements for the safe use of laser devices, WIBR Local Rules For Working with Lasers and in particular chapter Ten Commandments for Working Safely with Lasers Awareness of the laboratory area in which an individual may be exposed to laser energy above the MPE limit. Controls utilized to ensure laser non-users and incidental personnel are not exposed to laser energy above the MPE limit. Start up Procedure (including point at which you must wear laser protective eyewear) Special Procedures (alignment, safety tests, maintenance tests, other) Laser Specific Standard Operating procedures (power settings, Q-switch mode, pulse rate, other) Emergency laser shut down procedures Utilization of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) Accident reporting TO BE COMPLETED BY THE TRAINEE I agree to comply with the arrangements set out in the risk assessment and Code Of Practice. Name:.. Signature. Date 18