TECH ENVIRONMENTAL PRESS RELEASES

2008-02-18: Laser Safety for Healthcare and Industry

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health Radiation Control Program regulates the operation of lasers in all health care organi­zations and manufacturing industries. Regulations require anyone installing, operating, or servicing lasers to do so in accordance with the requirements of the American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers, otherwise known as ANSI Z136.1. In addition, health care organizations must also follow the requirements of the American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers in Health Care Facilities, known as ANSI Z136.3.

All lasers and laser systems must be registered with the Massachusetts Radiation Control Program. Laser hazards must be evaluated by a competent professional, and appropriate controls must be implemented to ensure the safety to workers and the general public. Each facility must have a designated Laser Safety Officer (LSO) with the responsibility and authority to monitor and enforce the control of laser hazards.

Tech Environmental has experienced staff knowledgeable about a broad range of lasers used in industry and health care. Tech can perform detailed hazard analyses or laser hazards, and develop and design engineered controls to curtail exposures. Our staff can develop required administrative policies, procedures, and training materials to support the laser safety program.

Recently, Tech Environmental completed laser safety evaluations at a facility in Foxboro, Massachusetts where powerful Class IV lasers were being used to manufacture gauges and monitoring devices. Observations and calculations of nominal hazard zones and optical density requirements led to several recommendations for improvement necessary to meet the latest ANSI standards.

Laser hazards are real. The evaluation of systems and correction of deficiencies is important to protect the visual health of all workers,Omega Replica Watches ­ not just to satisfy State requirements. If you are operating lasers and think you may not have thoroughly evaluated and minimized all of your workplace hazards, contact Dr. Thomas P. Fuller at (781) 890-2220 x112 to discuss your situation.

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