Laser Safety

The University of Oregon's Laser Safety guidance is based on the American National Standard Institute for Safe Use of Lasers (ANSI Z136.1-2022). The Laser Safety Program is designed to support the safe use of lasers in research and instructional laboratories.

Anyone working with lasers at UO is required to follow the Laser Safety Program. For Class 3B and Class 4 lasers, this includes registering your lasers, completing training, and completing and maintaining documentation. 

Person storing safety glasses next to a Laser In Use sign

Key Responsibilities

PIs and Lab Supervisors
  • Designate a Lab Laser Safety Officer.
  • Ensure control measures and training are in place.
Lab Laser Safety Officer
  • Register lasers with EHS.
  • Conduct hazard evaluations.
  • Approve written Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Class 3B and 4 lasers.
  • Maintain signage and training records.
  • Stop unsafe laser work.
Laser Users
  • Read and sign the Laser Safety Briefing Form.
  • Complete required training.
  • Follow SOPs and wear proper PPE.
  • Report incidents within 24 hours.

Required Training

Before starting laser work and annually, all Class 3B and 4 laser users must:

  • Complete online training
  • Complete lab-specific in-person training.
  • Document all training.
  • Review SOPs annually. 

Online Trainings

Employees find online Laser Training on MyTrack. 

Anyone unable to access MyTrack should email Research and Lab Safety for alternatives. 

Documents, Forms, and Sign Templates

Required documents and forms, as well as sign templates are available in the Laser Safety Program Manual. 

  • Laser Registration, Transfer, and Disposal Form (Appendix A)
  • Laser Hazard Evaluation Form (Appendix B)
  • SOP Template (Appendix C)
  • Laser Safety Self Assessment Form - General (Appendix F)
  • Laser System Safety Self Assessment Form (Appendix G)
  • Laser Safety Briefing Form (Appendix J)
  • Laser Safety Training Log (Appendix N)

Laser Controlled Area Basics

All Class 3B and 4 lasers must be used in Laser Controlled Areas. Laser Controlled Areas must include:

  • Entryway controls (e.g. signage).
  • Beam control (e.g. barriers).
  • Required laser safety eyewear.
  • Written SOP available at the setup.
  • Authorized, trained personnel only. 

Emergency Procedures

In case of incident:

  1. Shut down laser.
  2. Get medical help immediately for eye or skin exposure.
  3. Report the incident to your PI or Laser Lab Safety Officer and submit an injury report within 24 hours.
  4. Do not alter the laser setup before investigation. 

Additional lab emergency procedures, safety equipment, and planning information are available in the Lab Safety Manual. 

Laser Safety Program Manual

The Laser Safety Program Manual is your guide to responsibilities, requirements, procedures, and templates. 

Read the Laser Safety Program Manual

Questions? 

Contact Research and Lab Safety at ehsinfo@uoregon.edu or 541-346-3192.