11.0 CONTROL MEASURES
When used as intended Class 1, 2, and 3R laser systems are generally low hazard devices; however some
requirements still apply.
• Exposure to laser radiation must be kept below the Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) under
all conditions of operation or maintenance.
• Laser systems must have the appropriate warning labels and the appropriate cautionary statement.
• Removal of protective housing or system modification can increase a laser’s classification and
requires approval from the LSO.
All class 3B and 4 lasers and laser systems shall be operated in a laser-controlled area. The requirements
for individual laser-controlled areas shall be determined by the LSO. The minimum requirements for
laser-controlled areas are:
• Entryway controls to allow only authorized personnel or approved spectators to enter the laser
control area. (Administrative controls are acceptable.)
• Conspicuously posted sign or signs with instruction for the protection of personnel.
• Laser safety eyewear readily available and used in accordance with the SOP for class 3B and
class 4 lasers and laser systems.
• Beam control (barriers and beam blocks) to limit laser hazards within the controlled area.
• Class 3B and Class 4 lasers and laser systems written SOP’s shall include beam and non-beam
hazards.
• Training of operators of all class 3B and 4 lasers and laser systems.
Alignment
Class 3B lasers and Class 4 lasers shall have written alignment procedures.
12.0 NON-BEAM HAZARDS
Non-beam hazards often exist in laser-related operations and can pose significant health and safety risks.
All non-beam hazards must be addressed in SOPs. Examples of non-beam hazards may include:
• Electrical hazards from power supplies.
• Laser generated air contaminants (LGAC), which may be generated when a Class 4 or some Class
3B lasers interact with matter.
• Fire hazards from Class 4 lasers.
• Compressed gases.
• Laser dyes and solvents may contain complex fluorescent organic compounds.
13.0 LASER USE OUTDOORS
The Principal Investigator shall inform the LSO of any Class 3R, 3B, or 4 lasers used outdoors for research
projects. The application and operation of the laser system(s) shall be evaluated by the LSO to ensure that
appropriate safety measures are in place prior to operation.
• FAA notification is required (for Class 3R, 3B or 4 lasers) if the laser is being used in navigable
airspace.
14.0 LASER USED FOR PUBLIC DISPLAYS/ENTERTAINMENT (Non-Research)
Any Class 3B or 4 laser used for entertainment, displays, demonstrations, or any related use intended for
public viewing (indoors or outdoors) on CSUCI property shall be operated in accordance with federal,
state, local, and campus regulations/requirements.
• Campus departments and campus-affiliated groups shall notify the LSO of any laser light show
(indoor or outdoor) to be performed on CSUCI property.
• The operators of laser systems used for entertainment are required by law to file a variance
document with the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health
(FDA/CDRH). If the venue is outdoors and the beam(s) may terminate in navigable airspace, then
the operators are also required to file a report with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).