Laser Safety Officer (LSO) - LaserPecker LP4

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Introduction:

The safe operation of the LaserPecker LP4 requires a trained Laser Safety Officer (LSO). LaserPecker has consulted with laser experts to design these LaserPecker LP4 LSO Training Materials to help you comply with your LSO responsibilities and ensure that you operate your LaserPecker LP4 safely.

There are 4 documents included in the LaserPecker LP4 LSO Training Material.

The #1 document, "LaserPecker LP4 LSO Training", contains three sections:

  • The first section, "LaserPecker LP4 Safe Operations", describes the steps to ensure safe operation.

  • The second section, "Laser Safety Officer Responsibilities", describes your role as a LaserPecker LP4 Laser Safety Officer.

  • The third section, "About Lasers and Laser Safety" provides general information about lasers, laser safety, and laser-related regulations.

The #2 document, "LaserPecker LP4 Laser Safety Plan", is the laser safety plan document you can adopt as a LaserPecker 4 LSO.

The #3 document, "LaserPecker 4 Laser Standard Operating Procedure", is an SOP document that can be used as part of the LaserPecker 4 Laser Safety Plan.

The #4 document, "Warning Signs", offers you the flexibility to enhance your compliance measures. If you decide not to operate LaserPecker LP4 under Class 1 conditions, you may use this sign as described in the SOP, giving you the power to control and improve your safety procedures.

 

#1 LaserPecker LP4 LSO Training

LaserPecker 4 Safe Operations

Class 1 conditions

Your LaserPecker LP4 is a Class 4 laser. However, certain safety precautions may create Class 1 conditions around the laser, which do not produce damaging radiation levels during regular operation. It means that if you cover the processing area entirely with a protective cover, additional protective measures such as safety glasses, signs, and warning lights are not required.

However, even under Class 1 conditions, everyone using the LaserPecker LP4 must read and follow the User's Manual and LDS instructions.

Protective cover

When the protective cover is fully closed and all the instructions in the user manual and LDS are abided by, there is a Class 1 condition. There is no need for further laser safety precautions. However, children and untrained users should be forbidden from accessing LaserPecker LP4.

Operations Beyond Class 1 Conditions

If your LaserPecker LP4 is not operated under Class 1 conditions, you are responsible for ensuring its safe operation. The SOP provided does not allow for safe operation under Class 4 conditions, so the LSO must create an SOP for safe operation. Ultimately, the LSO is responsible for defining what is required and using that SOP for description and implementation, while the laser operator is responsible for ensuring compliance and safe operation. Some of the critical elements of a Class 4 SOP may include:

Suitable Safety Goggles

LaserPecker sells safety goggles suitable for use with your LaserPecker LP4 under Class 4 conditions. Please check our official website for more information. LaserPecker Official Website

LED Status Light

When the LP4 is powered on, the status light is solid yellow. When it is not connected to the network, it blinks white. After it connects to the network, it will blink blue. A solid blue status light indicates that the LP4 machine is connected to LDS software/app. If engraving or cutting is in process, the status light will be solid green.

Auto Stop Mode

When the safety mode is enabled in the software, the machine will automatically stop working if the protective cover is opened. Additionally, the machine cannot be operated without the protective cover when the safety mode is on

Emergency Stop Button

The LP4 is equipped with an emergency stop button. Pressing this button will stop the machine and turn the status light solid red.

Laser Safety Officer Responsibilities

The LSO and Your Laser Safety Plan

ANSI Z136.1 describes guidelines for a safety program that will minimize the hazards of a Class 4 laser like LaserPecker LP4. Primary safety responsibility rests with someone designated as the Laser Safety Officer, or LSO. This document is designed to assist you in acting as the LSO for one or more LaserPecker LP4 units. It does not provide sufficient information to advise you on acting as the LSO for any other laser.

The LSO verifies the classification of the laser. The LSO determines the level of hazard by considering the details of the laser and creates a standard operating procedure (SOP) that determines what control measures (like additional interlocks, training, and safety glasses) should be used.

The LSO is then responsible for helping and training other laser users, ensuring safe compliance, analyzing any possible hazards, providing safety equipment, ensuring all regulations are complied with including (in the US) CDRH, OSHA, and state regulations, and auditing the use of the laser to make sure it's used safely.

Beyond these responsibilities, the LSO must also recommend and approve signs, labels, protective equipment, facilities, equipment, and any modifications, maintain records, approve laser system operation, and investigate accidents should one occur. The LSO is ultimately the one responsible for determining if and how a laser may be safely operated.

Hazard Analysis

The LSO must analyze the hazards present in the lasers for which they are responsible. The LSO may rely on an expert for the execution of hazard analysis. LaserPecker created a hazard analysis (provided below) of the LaserPecker LP4 that you may choose to use in your laser safety program.

Standard Operation Procedure

Based on Hazard Analysis, the LSO must create a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) that describes the control measures required to minimize hazards. LaserPecker has also created a sample SOP (provided below) that you may use or adapt to your LaserPecker LP4 laser safety program.

About Lasers and Laser Safety

How Lasers are Different

Lasers are a special kind of light source. Most light is made of many different colors, all shining out in lots of directions at once.

Laser light is different in three ways.

First, laser light is monochromatic - just one color. Sometimes that color is visible, like the low-power red laser that you can see your LaserPecker LP4 use to measure the distance between material and laser unit when it's focusing. Sometimes it's invisible, like the high-power infrared laser beam your LaserPecker LP4 uses to cut and engrave material.

In technical discussions, people describe lasers as producing "nonionizing electromagnetic radiation". That describes a broad category that includes everything from sunshine to radio waves. Instead of talking about color, they use the term "wavelength". The printing laser wavelength on LaserPecker LP4 is 455 nm blue-light laser and 1064 nm infrared laser.

The second difference between laser light and regular light is that laser light is directional. That means that it can be made to travel in a straight line, in a beam, without spreading out much.

The third difference is that laser light is coherent. That means that each lightwave is synchronized with the others.

It's very hard to get light to move in a straight line, without spreading out. If the waves aren't lined up, or if there's a mix of colors and directions, the beam will spread out. Lasers, however, can stay lined up for a long distance - and, importantly, can be focused down to a point.

Lasers' greatest effectiveness and danger, as compared to ordinary light, comes from lasers' ability to be focused.

Laser Background

The very first laser used a strobe light and a ruby crystal. The light from the strobe was amplified in the ruby crystal, stimulating it to emit nonionizing electromagnetic radiation at 694 nanometers. The acronym“LASER” comes from this experiment - light amplification through stimulated emission of radiation.

These first lasers were called "solid-state" lasers because the action parts were solid crystals. Shortly after the development of solid-state lasers came gas lasers, which can resemble neon signs. Electricity causes gas in a tube to glow. Specially tuned mirrors amplify the light, and the laser beam emerges.

One of the most recent lasers to be invented is the diode laser. Diode lasers are small electrical devices that are made of microchips and LEDs. They turn power directly into laser light. You may have seen one before on a laser pointer.

Measurements

There are four measurements used to describe the effect of a laser.

Joules measure energy: If you shine a light on a gram of water until it absorbs 1 joule of energy, the water will heat by about a quarter of a degree Celsius.

Watts measure power: If you turn on a one-watt light for a second, it will put out 1 joule during that time.

Joules per square centimeter measures radiant exposure: If you focus down that one-watt light to a square centimeter of paper and shine it for a second, that one joule will spread over the paper, and it will heat up slightly, just like the water. However, if you focus it down to 1/100th in size, the paper may singe and turn brown.

Finally, watts per square centimeter measure irradiance: If you keep shining that one-watt light on the paper, it will keep adding joules of energy. If it's focused on one square centimeter, it will slowly warm. If it's focused to 1/100th the size, the paper may catch fire.

Laser Hazards

Laser beams can be hazardous because the energy of the laser can damage the eyes and skin. (If the infrared laser and blue-light laser in LaserPecker LP4 irradiate the tissue, it will heat the tissue. This can cause damage to both eyes and skin.) The risk is higher if the laser is more powerful, more focused, or stays in one place for a longer time, so all of these factors are considered when assessing safety.

The laser beam can strike a person in one of three ways. First, the laser can be pointed at the person directly. Second, in specular reflection, the laser can be reflected toward a person. Third, in diffuse reflection, the laser strikes a surface that is not a mirror and scatters the light in all directions. Because the light from a diffuse reflection is scattered, it is not as hazardous as direct or reflected light, but there may still be enough intensity to cause damage.

Laser Hazard Classes

Lasers are classified by the level of radiation that may be encountered during normal operation.

Class 1 lasers are incapable of causing injury during normal operation. Class 1M lasers are the same, except unless magnifying optics are used. (The red lasers used for distance measurement and the blue laser used for previewing in LaserPecker LP4 are Class 1 lasers).

Class 2 lasers are incapable of causing injury in less than 0.25 seconds. Class 2M lasers are the same, except unless magnifying optics are used.

Class 3R lasers are marginally unsafe if the beam is directed at the eye. Class 3B lasers are hazardous if the beam is directed at the eye, but are usually not an eye hazard if the beam is scattered.

Class 4 lasers are eye and skin hazards for both direct and scattered exposure. (The infrared laser and blue diode laser used for material processing in LaserPecker LP4 are Class 4 lasers).

Laser Regulations

In the US, laser manufacturers like LaserPecker are regulated by the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) and are required to follow 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11, which are federal laws. In many other countries (but not the US), both laser manufacturers and laser users are required to follow IEC60825.

ANSI Z136.1 is a voluntary standard that describes how to use lasers safely. OSHA (a US federal law that applies to workplaces but not to private homes) requires a safety program like that described in the ANSI standard.

The CDRH requires that Class 4 laser devices have a defined set of safety features. The case of the LaserPecker LP4 prevents access to excess laser radiation and serves as the protective cover. Safety interlocks disable the laser if the protective cover is opened. You will have a physical key as the master key control of LaserPecker LP4, which can prevent unauthorized laser operation.

There may be other laser regulations depending on your country, state, and even city, and regulations may change. This information is provided to assist you in creating a safety program as described by ANSI Z126.1, but can not advise you on legal compliance.

Non-Beam Hazards

Your LaserPecker LP4 has other hazards. To minimize risks, please read the owner's manual and follow all instructions in the LDS.

Laser Generated Air Contaminants

When using a laser to process materials, a variety of air contaminants may be produced that can be hazardous. The air must be filtered to remove those contaminants. Follow the user manual in your LaserPecker LP4 to ensure that all exhaust is either properly treated or discharged outdoors where it can safely dissipate.

Process Nonionizing Radiation

Processing metals with a laser may result in the release of ultraviolet light. If your LaserPecker LP4 produces a bright light that cannot be viewed comfortably, look away.

Collateral Nonionizing Radiation

The material that produces the laser beam may emit harmful levels of UV and/or IR light. The LaserPecker LP4 has been tested to ensure that harmful levels are not present outside the case or when viewed through the protective cover.

#2 LaserPecker LP4 Laser Safety Program

Scope:

This program applies to LaserPecker LP4 Laser operated by LaserPecker LP4 Owner. This program is based on the guidance of ANSI Z136.1-2014, the American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers. The proper implementation of this program will assure that laser exposures are always below the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) limits.

Laser Safety Officer

An individual designated as the Laser Safety Officer (LSO) shall have the responsibility and authority to ensure compliance with this program. The LSO shall:

  1. Provide LaserPecker 4 laser hazard assessment

  2. Specify control measures for the LaserPecker LP4 laser and ensure implementation

  3. Approve procedures, SOPs, protective equipment, signs, and labels

  4. Assure that all laser personnel receive appropriate safety training

  5. Monitor the program and ensure compliance

  6. Maintain program records

The LSO shall have final authority in determining LaserPecker LP4 laser control measures and may approve alternate controls when these are appropriate based on the judgment of the LSO. LaserPecker LP4 laser shall be operated only with the approval of the LSO. The LSO shall have the authority to terminate laser operations at any time.

Laser Classes

Class 1: laser systems are incapable of producing damaging radiation levels during normal operation and are exempt from any control measures. Class 1 laser systems may contain higher class lasers and may produce laser hazards if operated with interlocks defeated. Only authorized personnel may operate class 1 laser systems with interlocks defeated. Operators of class 1 laser systems with embedded class 3B or class 4 lasers shall receive a laser safety briefing.

Class 1M: laser systems are incapable of producing hazardous exposure conditions during normal operation unless the beam is viewed with optical instruments. Operators of Class 1M laser systems shall receive a laser safety briefing.

Laser 2: laser systems emit visible light only at a power level of 1 milliwatt or less. The normal aversion response to bright light is adequate protection. Staring into the beam of a class 2 laser is hazardous. Operators of class 2 laser systems shall receive a laser safety briefing.

Class 2M: laser systems emit visible light only. The normal aversion response to bright light is adequate protection for unaided viewing. However, viewing the beam with optical aids is potentially hazardous. Operators of Class 2M laser systems shall receive a laser safety briefing.

Class 3R: laser systems are potentially hazardous under some viewing conditions, but the probability of an actual injury is small, and the control measures for safe use are straightforward. Most laser pointers fall in this class. Operators of class 3R laser systems shall receive a laser safety briefing. (Most lasers previously classified as class 3a fall in this category.)

Class 3B: laser systems can be hazardous to the eyes for in-beam viewing and specular reflections (even for transient exposures), but diffuse reflections do not usually pose a hazard. They should be operated only by authorized operators within the laser control area and should have approved laser safety training.

Class 4: laser systems are eye hazards for intrabeam viewing and specular reflections, even for momentary exposures, but diffuse reflections are not usually hazardous. Class 3B laser systems shall be operated only in laser-controlled areas by authorized operators. Operators of class 3B laser systems shall receive approved laser safety training.

Training Requirements

When operating in Class 1 conditions, all users will read and obey the safety instructions in the manual and LDS software. When operating in Class 4 conditions, additional laser safety training is required and must be prepared and administered by the LSO. If there are bystanders or children, or if LaserPecker LP4 Laser is used in a public place where there may be untrained personnel, a light shield must be used.

Control Measures

The requirements for the LaserPecker LP4 controlled area shall be determined by the LSO.

The minimum requirements considered by the LSO for the LaserPecker LP4 controlled area are:

  1. Entryway controls to allow only authorized personnel or approved spectators to enter the LaserPecker LP4 controlled area. (Administrative controls are acceptable.)
  2. Laser safety eyewear is available and used by the SOP for LaserPecker LP4.
  3. Beam control (barriers and beam blocks) to limit laser hazards within the controlled area.
  4. Written SOP for LaserPecker LP4.
  5. Training of LaserPecker LP4 operators.

Eyewear Policy

Laser safety eyewear is not normally required for the operation of LaserPecker LP4 when operating in Class 1 conditions as described in the SOP. The LSO will require eyewear or approve laser operation without eyewear based on a hazard evaluation performed by the LSO or the LSO may choose to delegate this responsibility.

Responsibilities of employees working with lasers

Employees who work with the LaserPecker LP4 Laser with the beam exposed shall:

  1. Energize or work with lasers only when authorized to do so.
  2. Comply with laser safety rules and work procedures.
  3. Notify their supervisor or the LSO in case of potential accident or injury or suspected unsafe condition.

Laser safety audit

  1. It will be visually inspected for damage.
  2. The most recent version of the user manual will be re-read.
  3. The laser will be energized and the protective enclosure opened to confirm that the interlocks correctly interrupt operation.
  4. The Laser Safety Program will be reviewed to ensure that the program is current and compliant.
  5. A record of this audit will be completed, printed, signed, dated, and retained.

Records

The LSO shall maintain records that document the Laser Safety Program. These records shall include:

  1. Laser hazard analysis reports for the LaserPecker LP4 Laser
  2. A list of operators who have been trained and permitted to use the LaserPecker LP4 Laser
  3. Standard Operating Procedures for the LaserPecker LP4 Laser
  4. Approvals of alternate laser control measures if implemented
  5. Laser Safety Audit checklist

#3 LaserPecker LP4 Laser Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

Scope:

This SOP applies to the normal operation of the LaserPecker LP4 Laser as specified by the manufacturer.

System Description:

Double light source semiconductor laser material processing system. This is a Class 4 laser system that normally operates under Class 1 conditions (ANSI Z136.1, 4.4.2.7.2.1).

Wavelength: 455 nm / 1064 nm
Maximum Power: 20 W

Potential Hazards

A. Eye hazard from the direct, reflected, or scattered beam.

B. Skin hazard and fire hazard.

C. Electrical hazard inside the power supply.

D. Laser-generated air contaminants.

Control Measures

A. The LSO will only allow physical access to the laser to users who have been enrolled in the LDS software and thereby receive safe operating instructions.

B. All users of the LaserPecker LP4 Laser will comply with the user manual and all instructions in the LDS software at all times.

C. The LaserPecker LP4 Laser shall be operated in class 1 conditions per ANSI Z136.1, 4.4.2.7.2.1 (reference Hazard Analysis Report). Class 1 conditions shall be considered fulfilled when operating under the following guidelines.

a. The laser system shall be operated with all manufacturer safety features fully functional.
b. The protective enclosure is fully closed.

D. Do not operate LaserPecker LP4 with bystanders and children nearby, or in public places where the protective enclosure is not used safely. You can take away the key to ensure that your LaserPecker LP4 will not be used by others.

E. Keep all combustibles, tools, and reflective surfaces away from the beam path. Make sure you know where the beam is and stay clear.

F. Work involving access to the power supply shall be done by the manufacturer with no exceptions.

G. Maintenance shall be done with the laser system turned off.

Required Training: When operating in Class 1 conditions, all users will read and obey the safety instructions in the manual and LDS software. When operating in Class 4 conditions, additional laser safety training is required and must be prepared and administered by the LSO.

For emergency medical response call ____. Report all incidents to the LSO. Authorized Personnel

The following personnel are authorized to operate this system:

#4 Warning Sign

warning signs

 

warning signs 1

 

warning signs 2

 

Disclaimer:

This training document is based on existing searchable documents, including but not limited to 21 CFR Part 1040.10, 1040.11, ANSI Z136.1 Standard - Guidance for Implementing a Safe Laser Program, OSHA, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Alliance, the U.S. Laser Protocol: the Laser Regulators and the Center for Devices and Radiological Health, and other publicly available documents and standards issued by the above agencies at the time of this document's development. The documents and standards issued by these organizations and available in the public domain have been prepared, and the courses and presentations of some laser safety experts in the public domain have also been taken into account. The final right of interpretation of this document belongs to LaserPecker.

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