The Laser Safety Officer

doi:10.1117/3.903373.ch3

Book: Laser Safety in the Lab

Author(s): Ken Barat

Published: 2012

https://doi.org/10.1117/3.903373.ch3

Author Affiliations +

Abstract

From an ANSI and real-world point of view, you cannot have laser safety without a person responsible for it. This is the role of the LSO. The LSO does not need to perform all of the LSO duties; rather, he or she is responsible for seeing that they are all addressed. The position itself does not need to be full time and commonly is just one of several hats that a person wears. If staff has access to Class 3B or Class 4 lasers, an LSO is required. This includes work on enclosed laser systems that contain Class 3B or Class 4 lasers. (Note: in case of a regulatory inspection, the first person inspectors will ask to speak to is the LSO.)