TAMU regulations and guidelines for laser use.
Contents
1. 1 The name and position of the applicant including department and contact information 2 The signature of the Department Head or equivalent The department head must recognize and acknowledge use of lasers in that department 3 The physical location of the laser This is the room number or lab A drawing may be required in some instances 4 The type of laser Dye Argon Diode Eximer etc 5 The manufacturer of the laser Found on the control panel or user manual If the laser is manufactured by University personnel so state The model and serial number of the laser The inventory number AMU RF etc 8 The excitation mechanism Optical electrical chemical etc TEO 8 9 The time dependent operating properties of the laser CW Pulse Repetitively Pulsed mode locked etc 10 If continuous wave CW the power in watts 11 If pulsed a The maximum capable energy level of the laser in joules b The maximum pulse frequency per second c The minimum pulse duration 12 The operating wavelength s of the laser 13 Lens specification if applicable 14 Fiber optic specifications if applicable 15 The size shape and divergence of beam 16 Other information should include a brief description of the purpose of the laser Doppler measurements fluorescence etc frequency of use expected primary users etc The LSO should be informed if there is anything that may have a bearing on safety related iss2. 16 2 A determination that protective devices are labeled correctly functioning within the design specifications and properly chosen for lasers and IPL devices in use 3 A determination that all warning devices are functioning within their design specifications 4 A determination that the controlled area is properly controlled and posted with accurate warning signs 5 A re evaluation of potential hazards from surfaces that may be associated with beam paths and 6 Additional surveys that may be required to evaluate the primary and collateral radiation hazard incident to the use of lasers and IPL devices 9 9 Fiber Optic Transmission Reference 25 TAC 289 301 s 2 Optical cables used for transmission of laser radiation shall be considered part of the laser protective housing Disconnection of a fiber optic connector which results in access to radiation in excess of the MPE shall take place in a controlled area All connectors shall bear appropriate labels Optical cables shall include at least one opaque sheath to prevent leakage of laser radiation in case of breakage Note If the fiber is designed to emit light through the walls of the fiber the Permit Holder must inform the LSO and include justification for lack of opaque cover in the SOP 9 10 Skin protection Reference 25 TAC 289 301 t 2 When there is potential for skin exposure to levels exceeding the skin MPE for the laser persons in the controlled area shall wear ap
3. 289 301 t 1 Each Permit Holder shall provide protective eyewear that meets the requirements of 25 TAC 289 301 t 1 The eyewear shall be located where persons who operate the laser have unrestricted access to the eyewear The eyewear shall be worn during any operation 15 where a Class 3b or Class 4 beam is not enclosed including during the alignment of the laser Training on identification proper fit location and use of eyewear shall be included in the specific laser safety training by the Permit Holder or designee Protective eyewear shall be inspected annually and records are to be retained for 5 years Protective eyewear shall meet the following requirements 1 Provide a comfortable and appropriate fit all around the area of the eyes 2 in good physical condition to ensure the lenses retain all protective properties during its use 3 Be of Optical Density OD and Visible Light Transmission VLT adequate for the laser energy involved 4 Have the optical density or densities and associated wavelengths permanently labeled on the filters or eyewear 5 Be examined at intervals not exceeding 12 months to ensure the reliability of the protective filters and integrity of the holders Unreliable eyewear shall be discarded and replaced The performance and results of the examinations must be documented and kept as record by the Permit Holder 6 The optical density of the protective eyewear shall be appropriate for the spe
4. 9 4 Safety Interlocks Alternatives Reference 25 289 301 r 3 E G i ID The regulations recognize that in situations where an engineering control automatic safety interlock may be inappropriate the LSO shall specify alternate controls to obtain equivalent laser safety protection Requests to use alternate controls may be submitted in writing to the LSO and if accepted will be documented in the SOP 14 Where safety latches or interlocks are not feasible or are inappropriate for example during surgical procedures a controlled area shall be established Designating an entire room as control area is not acceptable In a controlled area the following shall apply 1 All authorized personnel shall be trained in laser safety and appropriate personal protective equipment shall be provided and worn upon entry 2 Analcove with a door constructed from appropriate materials such as certified laser curtains blocking barrier screen sheet rock etc without gaps shall be used to block screen or attenuate the laser radiation at the entryway The level at the exterior of these devices shall not exceed the applicable MPE nor shall personnel experience any exposure above the MPE immediately upon entry 3 Ifa laser is energized and operating at the entryway there shall be a visible or audible signal and signage indicating laser operations This indicator may be interfaced with the laser itself the power supply or manually opera
5. excess of the accessible emission limits of Class 3a lasers in ANSI Z136 1 2000 Safe Use of Lasers but does not permit human access during operation to levels of laser radiation in excess of the emission limits of Class 3b lasers contained in ANSI Z136 1 2000 Safe Use of Lasers 5 5 Class 4 Laser IV Any laser that permits human access during operation to levels of laser radiation in excess of the accessible emission limits of Class 3b lasers contained in the most recent edition of ANSI Z136 1 2000 Safe Use of Lasers 6 0 Laser Permit Information 6 1 Registration of Class 3b and Class 4 Lasers Each Class 3b and Class 4 laser which is operated possessed purchased donated manufactured created assembled or otherwise received by any person or entity at the University shall be listed on a valid Texas A amp M University Laser Permit before operation Application for the Permit shall be tendered to the LSO by the receiving party as soon as is practicable but in no case more than 14 days following receipt of the laser Under no circumstances shall a Class 3b or Class 4 laser be used or energized on Texas A amp M property before it is listed on valid Texas A amp M University Laser Permit unless otherwise authorized by the LSO A Laser Permit Application is provided in the Laser Procedures Manual This section describes what information must be provided with the Laser Permit Application Information shall include Required Information
6. Class 4 laser shall be controlled at the higher classification if the Class 3b or Class 4 laser is accessed Any Class 3b or Class 4 laser will be referred to as laser unless otherwise noted 5 1 Class 1 Laser I or IEC Class 1 or 1M Any laser that does not permit access during the operation to levels of laser radiation in excess of the accessible emission limits contained in American National Standards Institute ANSI Z136 1 2000 Safe Use of Lasers 5 2 Class 2 Laser II or IEC Class 2 or 2M Any laser that permits human access during operation to levels of visible laser radiation in excess of the accessible emission limits of Class 1 lasers contained in ANSI Z136 1 2000 Safe Use of Lasers but does not permit human access during operation to levels of laser radiation in excess of the accessible emission limits of Class 2 lasers contained in ANSI Z136 1 2000 Safe Use of Lasers 5 3 Class 3a Laser or Class 3R Any laser that permits human access during operation to levels of visible laser radiation in excess of the accessible emission limits of Class 2 lasers contained in ANSI Z136 1 2000 Safe Use of Lasers but does not permit human access during operation to levels of laser radiation in excess of the accessible emission limits of Class 3a lasers contained in ANSI Z136 1 2000 Safe Use of Lasers 5 4 Class Laser IIIb or Any laser that permits human access during operation to levels of laser radiation in
7. explosion laser generated gases vapors or fumes ventilation and physical safety hazards The evaluation shall be made part of the SOPs and be available for review 12 0 Laser Security Permit Holders are responsible for securing lasers against unauthorized removal or access at all times While the laser is in operation the doors shall be locked at all times to prevent unauthorized entry The following are generally acceptable practices If other security measures are employed Permit Holders should consult with EHS 1 If lasers are accessible unsecured in a laboratory laboratory doors should be locked to prevent unauthorized access or 2 During periods when the laboratory is not locked security may be maintained by direct surveillance The person watching the lab or area shall be instructed to question unauthorized and or unrecognized persons who enter the laboratory 13 0 Inspections of Permit Holder Operations Permit Holders may be inspected at any time by either the TAMU EHS or the Texas Department of State Health Services DSHS The following information is intended to make the Permit Holder aware of the inspection program and to provide general information on what is expected of the Permit Holder 13 1 Inspections by Environmental Health and Safety EHS inspection of Permit Holders located on TAMU campus should be conducted at least once every two years EHS reserves the right to inspect any Permit Holder with no advance no
8. supervision by the registrant for the purpose of protection from radiation hazards Diffuse reflection Change of the spatial distribution of a beam of radiation when it is reflected in many directions by a surface or by a medium Electromagnetic radiation The flow of energy consisting of orthogonally vibrating electric and magnetic fields lying transverse to the direction of propagation X ray ultraviolet visible infrared and radio waves occupy various portions of the electromagnetic spectrum and differ only in frequency wavelength or photon energy Erythema Reddening of the skin a k a sunburn Immediate notification Notification of the proper authorities at the first opportunity available but in no case shall the time period between incident and notification exceed one hour Infrared radiation Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths which lie within the range of 0 7 um to 1 mm Intense pulsed light IPL device A device that emits radiation to energy density levels that could reasonably cause bodily harm and that is used for photothermolysis This device is a Class 2 or Class 3 surgical device certified as complying with the design labeling and manufacturing standards of the United States Food and Drug Administration FDA 20 Intrabeam viewing When the eye views or is exposed to a laser beam directly This includes most collimated beams and point sources Inoperable Incapable of operation by reason of
9. ACCESSIBLE EMISSION LIMITS CONTAINED IN AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARDS INSTITUTE ANSI Z136 1 2000 SAFE USE OF 7 5 2 CLASS Z LASER IFOR TEC GLASS Z OR 2M 7 ANY LASER THAT PERMITS HUMAN ACCESS DURING OPERATION TO LEVELS OF VISIBLE LASER RADIATION IN EXCESS OF THE ACCESSIBLE EMISSION LIMITS OF CLASS 1 LASERS CONTAINED IN ANSI Z136 1 2000 SAFE USE OF LASERS BUT DOES NOT PERMIT HUMAN ACCESS DURING OPERATION TO LEVELS OF LASER RADIATION IN EXCESS OF THE ACCESSIBLE EMISSION LIMITS OF CLASS 2 LASERS CONTAINED IN ANSI Z136 1 2000 SAFE USE OF LASERS sssssssecccccnscessscecececuecsseececcsecuecsseececesscueesseecesecsenaesseecesecueuaesssecesseueganeeseeesees 7 5 3 CLASS LASER INA ORIEC CLASS SR u Resale Real 7 ANY LASER THAT PERMITS HUMAN ACCESS DURING OPERATION TO LEVELS OF VISIBLE LASER RADIATION IN EXCESS OF THE ACCESSIBLE EMISSION LIMITS OF CLASS 2 LASERS CONTAINED IN ANSI Z136 1 2000 SAFE USE OF LASERS BUT DOES NOT PERMIT HUMAN ACCESS DURING OPERATION TO LEVELS OF LASER RADIATION IN EXCESS OF THE ACCESSIBLE EMISSION LIMITS OF CLASS 3A LASERS CONTAINED IN ANSI Z136 1 2000 SAFE USE OF LASERS sssssssecccccescsescececscuecusecceceseceecsnescececeaueesseecesecseeussseecesecseuassssecesseueganesseeesees 7 5 4 CLASS LASER IIIB OR SiSiGLASS 4 LASER A Va a Rn nee vases cis Hausa E satay E a aac 6 0 LASER PERMIT INFORMATION 6 1 REGI
10. EMAIL LASER DEVICE INFORMATION SERIAL MANUFACTURER MODEL CLASS DESCRIPTION Dye Argon Diode Eximer etc or LOCATION BUILDING ROOM INVENTORY If Applicable BEAM DIAMETER mm BEAM DIVERGENCE mm WAVELENGTH nm EXCITIATION MECHANISM Optical electrical chemical LENS or FIBER OPTIC SPECIFICATIONS If Applicable etc MODE select one CONTINUOUS WAVE PULSED or Q SWITCHED AVG POWER W PULSE DURATION s MAX POWER W PULSE FREQUENCY Hz AVG JOULES PULSE J MAX JOULES PULSE J PLEASE INCLUDE A COPY OF THE SPECIFICATIONS SHEET THAT ACCOMPANIES THIS LASER Texas A amp M University Office of Radiological Safety TEXAS A amp M UNI Vick Res iT E List the name and title of each individual who will use or directly supervise the use of the laser device Include names of technicians and students Please designate one of the users as an alternate lab contact and include his her office phone Statement of training experience of applicant Include training courses completed laser device operation experience and the type of work performed Certificates of completion may be attached if possible Statement of use Describe the purpose for which the laser device s will be used Use additional sheets if necessary Safety protocols Describe procedur
11. STRATION OF CLASS AND CLASS 4 LASERS ccccccccecccesecececeseceseeeseeeseseseseseseseeeseeeeeseseseseseeesesesesesesesesesesesesesesesesess 8 6 2 PERMIT RENEWALS 10 6 3 REMOVAL FROM REGISTRATION 3 10 6 3 1 Transfer Of Lasersas anne nina anal a 11 TRANSFER OF LASERS AS USED IN THIS SECTION DOES NOT INCLUDE TRANSFER OF LASERS TO FOR DISPOSAL TRANSFER REFERS TO A CHANGE IN CUSTODY OR CONTROL OF ANY LASER ANY CUSTOM BUILT OR MODIFIED LASER SYSTEMS CANNOT BE TRANSFERRED OFF OF CAMPUS THOSE SYSTEMS MUST DISPOSED OF OR RENDERED INOPERABLE BY THE EHS STAFF 11 6 3 2 Disposal of Laser nn a sn en nen BESSER cancels ge Sn diii i 6 4 SABBATICALS AND ABSENCES OF 28 DAYS OR GREATER 6 5 INVENTORY OF LASERS 6 6 LASER SERVICES AND 6 7 LASER DEMONSTRATION AND SALES 7 0 MANUFACTURE CONSTRUCTION REFERENCE 25 TAC 289 301 B 4 s sssssssosssssssssssesssesssssssesessssesessssceveeees 13 8 0 MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE EXPOSURE MPE AND NOMINAL HAZARD ZONE NHZ REFERENCE 25 TAC 289 301 D 31 AND 34 25 TAC 289 301 U ccccccssssssscscccssssssssccccccsssssssncceeeccsssssssnsceeseesssesssscceeseesssssssnseeses 13 9 0 REQUIRED LASER SAFETY PROGRAM FEATUREG s
12. Texas A amp M University AJM TEXAS A amp M Office of Radiological Safety U NEVES Res iT Laser Safety Program Manual Radiological Safety Program Manual Part Three Radiological Safety Environmental Health and Safety Texas A amp M University 4472 TAMU College Station TX 77843 4472 Telephone 979 845 1361 Fax 979 862 7804 Website http ehsd tamu edu Email radiological safety tamu edu Revised 4 5 2013 Rev 1 Introduction The Texas A amp M University Laser Safety Program Manual sets forth controls and safety guidance for research and educational activities involving lasers This program is established to protect personnel from effects such as skin burns or eye injuries and to meet the requirements of 25 Texas Administrative Code 289 301 If any conflict occurs between this Program Manual and the Code the latter shall prevail unless the manual is more restrictive This manual is not intended to be an exhaustive or fully comprehensive reference rather a guide for registered users Further advice concerning hazards associated with specific substances devices and the development of new or unfamiliar activities should be obtained through consultation with the Laser Safety Officer LSO All users of lasers and laser producing devices must be familiar with the requirements set forth in this manual and all applicable regulations of the Texas Department of State Health Services DSHS and must conduct their op
13. asurement or by using the appropriate laser range equations or other equivalent assessments 9 0 Required Laser Safety Program Features 9 1 Laser Safety Standard Operating Procedure Reference 25 TAC 289 301 r 2 B Each Class 3b and Class 4 laser shall have a Laser Safety Standard Operating Procedure SOP written for its operation An SOP is the same as a laboratory laser research specific protocol that specifies safe use and procedures for the laser system The SOP must be present at the operating console or control panel of the laser The SOP shall include at a minimum operating instructions appropriate personal protective equipment eyewear parameters and instructions for proper use interlock instructions as well as safety procedures which will include the clearing of all non essential personnel from the Nominal Hazard Zone The SOP shall include emergency response actions and clear warnings to avoid possible exposure to laser and collateral radiation in excess of the MPE and 25 TAC 289 301 r 1 The SOP shall be available for inspection by the LSO at any time 13 9 2 Key control Reference 25 TAC 289 301 r 4 Each Class 3b or 4 laser and IPL device shall incorporate a key actuated or computer actuated master control The key shall be removable and the Class 3b or Class 4 laser or IPL device shall not be operable when the key is removed When not being prepared for operation or is unattended the key will be removed from t
14. ble radiation for the purposes of this manual 0 18 to 0 4 um Viewing Portal An opening in an experimental system allowing the user to observe the experimental chamber All viewing portals and display screens included as an integral part of a laser system must incorporate a suitable means to maintain the laser radiation at the viewing positions at or below the applicable MPE for all conditions of operation and maintenance Visible radiation light Electromagnetic radiation which can be detected by the human eye Watt The unit of power or radiation flux 1 watt 1 joule per second Wavelength A The distance between two successive points on a periodic wave that have the same phase 22 Appendix A Laser Application Form 23 Texas A amp M University TEXAS A amp M Office of Radiological Safety UNI RETTET Texas A amp M University Laser Safety Program Laser Permit Application All class 1116 and IV lasers used at Texas A amp M University are required to have a Permit from Environmental Health and Safety EHS See Section 6 1 of the Laser Safety Program Manual Safe laser use and procedural compliance is the responsibility of the laser permit holder To register your laser s please complete a separate form for each laser and send it to TAMU Laser Safety Officer EHS Mail Stop 4472 PERSONAL INFORMATION PERMITTEE POSITION DEPT OFFICE PHONE MAIL STOP EMAIL ALTERNATE ALTERNATE
15. bss coddesssecesessedeodessectesseconesse 20 1 0 Organization The Laser Safety Program shall be administered by the Laser Safety Officer LSO within Environmental Health and Safety EHS The Radiological Safety Committee RSC is a peer review committee with at least one member appointed who is a laser user The RSC advises University Administration and provides guidance regarding the Laser Safety Program The RSC also considers appeals made by the laser Permit Holders 2 0 Laser Safety Officer LSO The LSO is an EHS staff member who has the knowledge and responsibility to apply appropriate laser radiation protection rules standards and practices The LSO is named and specifically authorized to perform duties specified on the Certificate of Registration for Lasers issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services DSHS Radiation Control Program 2 1 Role of the LSO The LSO is responsible for implementing the laser safety program by monitoring and implementing established policies on matters relating to laser safety and is Texas amp University s authorized representative for laser safety The LSO shall have the responsibility and authority to investigate incidents take prompt remedial action and has the authority to stop all laser work without prior approval of the RSC If such independent action is required the LSO shall report details of the situation to the RSC at the earliest possible time 3 0 Radiological Safety Co
16. cific frequency and pulse length of the laser beam in use and shall provide reduction of the incident energy to less than the MPE of the laser It is important to include the pulse length and frequency of pulse repetition of pulsed lasers in selecting appropriate protective eyewear 9 7 Miscellaneous Safety and Training Issues 1 Persons working in a laboratory with multiple lasers shall be made aware of the various wavelengths and other operating parameters by the laser operator users 2 Persons working with tunable lasers or any laser which is frequency doubled or frequency tripled shall be aware of the effect of frequency manipulation and shall choose protective eyewear which will provide protection for the effective wavelength of the laser 9 8 Surveys Reference 25 TAC 289 301 w Each Permit Holder shall survey the laboratory containing the laser s for which the Permit Holder is responsible The survey shall be performed according to the Laser Procedure Manual The survey shall be performed biannually included with the Permit Verification Report and shall be performed prior to operating a laser for the first time after assembly maintenance or modification of the beam path operating wavelength or power level Survey records shall be retained for inspection by the LSO and shall include 1 A determination that all laser and intense pulsed light IPL devices are labeled correctly and functioning within the design specifications
17. damage disassembly removal or inactivation of key components that cannot be restored without significant repair or renovation Joule J A unit of energy One joule is equal to one watt second Laser An electronic device that emits stimulated radiation to energy density levels that could reasonably cause bodily harm A laser may also produce an intense coherent directional beam of light by stimulating electronic or molecular transitions to lower energy levels The term laser also includes the assembly of electrical mechanical and optical components associated with the laser A laser can be acomponent of a product or system An acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation Laser Safety Officer LSO An individual who has knowledge of and the authority and responsibility to apply appropriate laser radiation protection rules standards and practices and who must be specifically authorized on a certificate of laser registration Laser System An assembly of electrical mechanical and optical components which includes a laser Maximum Permissible Exposure MPE The level of laser radiation to which a person may be exposed without hazardous effect or adverse biological changes in the eye or skin For the purposes of this section maximum permissible exposures for laser radiation may be found in ANSI Z136 1 2000 Safe Use of Lasers Nominal Hazard Zone NHZ The space within which the level of direct ref
18. eeeesaess 17 9 11 MAGNIFICATION OF LASER BEAM REFERENCE 25 TAC 8289 301 R 2 C Il 0 ccccssccecessceceessececsescececsseseceeaeeeesssaees 17 9 12 VIEWING OPTICS AND WINDOWS REFERENCE 25 8289 301 3 17 10 0 RECORDS REFERENCE 25 TAC 289 301 EE ccsscsscsscssssssscsscsessssscsscsscesssssscsscesssssecsccsssessessccsscessasusassessesens 18 11 0 NON RADIATION HAZARDS ccccccssesccossdscccosevscevecseconvesevocssscosnesscetoeseecsveschecsececosedeccsessescevessncossececosedssenesseees 18 12 0 LASER SECURITY secscenssscscvssvecsevessecsesesveusesensosssvensedseven vedsvensyscavous ernevestecnceesvedssvenseusssecvesssven vevsreqssecheousvetsewessecs 18 13 0 INSPECTIONS OF PERMIT HOLDER OPERATIONS ssssccsssssccccsssccccsssccccsssccccessscccsssscecessssssessssssesssessessseees 18 13 1 INSPECTIONS BY ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY 18 13 2 INSPECTIONS BY THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF STATE HEALTH SERVICES ccceeeeeseecececeeeseesecaececeeeceeuaaeeeceeesesseaaeeeeeeeeeenes 19 14 0 INCIDENT REPORTING REFERENCE 25 TAC 289 301 Z BB 19 TSO EMERGENCIES o0i55i5 cca scccssssccesssccctecssccconssanessescsvesssacaeesssicoussseccsdssceacseescasesoucesssonessescecoassscbevsssagovesescosessseassesces 19 GLOSSARY OF TERMS en checessscccvesiacdosstsccndvescestisosceesiaedsestase
19. entity outside the University shall meet US Food and Drug Administration requirements per 21 CFR Part 1040 Federal Laser Product Performance Standard The assembler shall provide power wavelengths pulse frequency duration and any other applicable information requested by EHS see 6 1 8 0 Maximum Permissible Exposure MPE and Nominal Hazard Zone NHZ Reference 25 TAC 289 301 d 31 and 34 25 TAC 289 301 u An MPE is the level of laser exposure to which the eye or the skin may be exposed without adverse effects the skin is usually less limiting than the eye NHZ is the space within which the level of direct reflected or scattered radiation during operation exceeds the applicable MPE When any Class 3b or Class 4 laser is used at levels at or above Class 3b in an open beam mode unenclosed the MPE will be assumed to be exceeded in that room or area and appropriate precautions shall be taken In other words the NHZ nominal hazard zone will comprise the enclosure room or area to which the beam is restricted to by virtue of walls curtains or other barriers in which the laser is operating if operated at or above Class 3b levels This is done to account for intentional or unintentional scattered or reflected beam If the Permit Holder or Alternate believes the NHZ does not apply to the whole area a more limited NHZ may be justified in the Standard Operating Procedure SOP by using information supplied by the laser manufacturer by me
20. erations in accordance with them Title 25 ofthe Texas Administrative Code TAC 289 301 is based upon American National Standards Institute ANSI documents Additional guidance may be found in the following standards Safe Use of Lasers Z136 1 Safe Use of Optical Fiber Communication Systems Utilizing Laser Diode and LED sources Z136 2 Safe Use of Lasers in Health Care Facilities Z136 3 Safe Use of Lasers in Educational Institutions Z136 5 Contents 1 0 ORGANIZATION E EEEE 5 2 0 LASER SAFETY OFFICER 150 5 2 ROLEOFTHE LSO taisses e are ee I beine 5 3 0 RADIOLOGICAL SAFETY COMMITTEE RSC sssssssscccssssssssccccccesssssssscceeceesssssssccessesssssssssceeesessssesssnaceeseessees 5 4 0 EABORATORY PERSONNEL wi sccscinssccccicscsescscscocsesssesussssteccsesssesenssescssccseesescssccccsesssesedcsstescsesssessesssteccsesevesecdsseescees 5 AT BERMITHIOLDER ses teas AN E A E E T 6 A 2 PERMIT ALTERNATE OR ALTERNATE Henn Se ask RE eda den ash dans she E aaa Ea a EE 6 As AUTHORIZED USER E E E ars EEE nn AE E E A E EE 6 5 0 LASER HAZARD CLASSIFICATION 7 ST CLASS TEASER ORTEC CLASS TOR IM ba side nie 7 ANY LASER THAT DOES NOT PERMIT ACCESS DURING THE OPERATION TO LEVELS OF LASER RADIATION IN EXCESS OF THE
21. es or engineered safety features which will be used to minimize hazards during operation of the laser device TEXAS A amp M Texas A amp M University Office of Radiological Safety U NE Vick Res iT E have read and understand the University Laser Safety Program Manual regarding laser safety and accept responsibility as the permitted user for all lasers used under my permit as stated in section 4 1 Permit Holder PERMITEE Signature Date Please print or type name DEPARTMENT HEAD or Equivalent Signature Date Please print or type name State law requires that you be informed of the following 1 you are entitled to request to be informed about the information about yourself collected by use of this form with a few exceptions as provided by law 2 you are entitled to receive and review that information and 3 you are entitled to have the information corrected at no charge to you Contact radiological safety tamu edu or 979 845 1361 Texas A amp M University TEXAS A amp M Office of Radiological Safety UNI RETTET TO BE COMPLETED BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND SAFETY DEPARTMENT Date received by EHS Reviewed by Radiological Safety Officer Designee Date Chair Radiological Safety Committee Date Comments Member Radiological Safety Committee Date Comments Member Radiological Safety Committee Date Comments Appendix B Laser Transfer Form Texas A amp M Uni
22. he device and stored in a location away from the machine and computers shall be secured or locked 9 3 Safety Interlocks and Warning Systems Reference 25 TAC 289 301 r 3 B and D A safety interlock is a device that automatically prevents human access above MPE limits Safety interlocks shall be provided for any portion of the protective housing that by design can be removed or displaced without the use of tools during normal operation or maintenance and thereby allows access to radiation above MPE limits Adjustment during operation service testing or maintenance of a laser containing interlocks shall not cause the interlocks to become inoperative except where a laser controlled area as specified in subparagraph r 3 E of the referenced regulation is established For pulsed lasers interlocks shall be designed to prevent firing of the laser for example by dumping the stored energy into a dummy load and for CW lasers the interlocks shall turn off the power supply or interrupt the beam 1 by means of shutters Each Class 3b or Class 4 laser system shall provide visual or audible indication during the emission of accessible laser radiation The indication shall occur prior to emission of radiation with sufficient time to allow appropriate action to avoid exposure Any visual indication e g lights shall be visible through protective eyewear for the wavelength of the laser so that eyewear need not be removed to see it
23. ility of correct protective eyewear See section 9 6 Providing a Laser Safety Standard Operating Procedure SOP See section 9 1 Providing implementing and enforcing the Laser Safety Program specific to the laboratory laser Ensuring proper training in laser operation and safety Classifying and labeling all lasers in the laboratory Completing application for laser permit with the LSO Notifying the LSO immediately if an exposure incident occurs Notifying the LSO prior to a laser being decommissioned sold or transferred 10 Providing barriers and beam stops in the laser laboratory 11 Maintaining all records in regards to the registered laser ESPD vonau The Permit Holder may designate any of these responsibilities to an alternate 4 2 Permit Alternate or Alternate This person is appointed by the Permit Holder The Alternate shall aid in maintaining the Laser Safety Program for the individual lasers in the laboratory and may call on the LSO for assistance as needed The Alternate acting on behalf of the Permit Holder has the authority and responsibility to institute corrective actions including shutdown of laser operations when necessary due to unsafe conditions or safety concerns 4 3 Authorized User The authorized user is a person who sets up aligns operates uses the laser for experimental or research purposes or has other assigned laser duties The authorized user is responsible for 1 Following laborator
24. lected or scattered radiation during operation exceeds the applicable MPE Exposure levels beyond the boundary of the NHZ are below the applicable MPE level Optical density D The logarithm to the base ten of the reciprocal of the transmittance Di logiot where tis transmittance Power The rate at which energy is emitted transferred or received Protective Housing An enclosure surrounding the laser that prevents access to laser radiation above the applicable MPE level The aperture through which the useful beam is emitted is not part of the protective housing The protective housing may enclose associated optics and a work station and shall limit access to other associated radiant energy emissions and to electrical hazards associated with components and terminals Pulse duration The duration of a laser pulse This is usually measured as the time interval between the half power points on the leading and tailing edges of the laser pulse 21 Pulsed laser A laser that delivers its energy in the form of a single pulse or a train of pluses In this manual the duration of a pulse is lt 0 25 seconds Reflection The deviation of radiation following incidence on a surface Source A laser or a laser illuminated reflecting surface Specular Reflection A mirror like reflection Transmission Passage of radiation through a medium Ultraviolet Radiation Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths smaller than those of visi
25. mmittee RSC The RSC is a peer review committee appointed by upper administration with at least one member appointed who is a laser user This committee is used to provide guidance regarding the laser safety program The RSC will consider appeals made by the laser Permit Holders 1 The RSC consists of at least six voting members including the Chair appointed by the Vice President of Administration plus three Ex Officio nonvoting members a Director Environmental Health and Safety b Radiological Safety Officer RSO c Associate Vice President for University Risk amp Compliance 2 A quorum shall consist of 50 more of the voting members 3 The RSC shall meet at least three times annually and upon request of the Committee Chair The LSO or designee shall brief the RSC on the status of the laser safety program 4 0 Laboratory Personnel Persons authorized under laser permits must take responsibility for their own safety while performing job duties and must follow accepted safe work practices to protect others and the environment 4 1 Permit Holder The Permit Holder is the person whose name appears on the Permit for the laser Typically this is the Principal Investigator and must be permanent faculty or staff not a postdoctoral fellow or a graduate student This individual must be in a position of authority over the laser use The Permit Holder is responsible for Laser safety in the laboratory Ensuring the availab
26. n days per week Any individual may contact the EHS to obtain assistance Emergency telephone numbers should be posted in every laboratory in which lasers are used During normal business hours 979 845 1361 EHS Main Office After normal business hours weekends and holidays 979 862 1111 19 Glossary of Terms ANSI American National Standards Institute provides the American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers Beam A collection of rays characterized by direction diameter or dimensions and divergence or convergence Blink reflex The closure of the eyelid or movement of the head to avoid an exposure to a noxious stimulant or bright light Also known as Aversion Response Coherent A light beam is said to be coherent when the electric vector at any point in it is related to that at any other point by a definite continuous function Collateral radiation Any electromagnetic radiation except laser radiation emitted by a laser that is physically necessary for its operation The applicable accessible emission limits for collateral radiation may be found in Title 21 CFR Part 1040 10 Continuous wave The output of a laser that is operated in a continuous rather than a pulsed mode In this manual a laser operating with a continuous output for a period of gt 0 25 seconds is regarded as a continuous wave laser Controlled area An area where the occupancy and activity of those within is subject to control and
27. propriate clothing gloves and or shields 9 11 Magnification of Laser Beam Reference 25 TAC 289 301 r 2 C ii If at any time a laser beam is optically magnified or concentrated special precautions such as interlocks filters or attenuators shall be taken by the Permit Holder to prevent specular or diffuse reflection or other exposure greater than the MPE for the laser The special precautions shall be documented in the SOP for the laser 9 12 Viewing Optics and Windows Reference 25 TAC 289 301 r 3 C All viewing ports viewing optics display screens or collecting optics such as lenses telescopes microscopes etc included as an integral part of an enclosed laser or laser product shall incorporate suitable means such as interlocks filters or attenuators to maintain the laser radiation transmitted through the collecting optics to levels at or below the appropriate MPE 17 10 0 Records Reference 25 TAC 289 301 ee Records of Surveys Training NHZ and MPE calculations and other laboratory specific information shall be maintained in the laboratory and shall be available for inspection review by the LSO at any time Records shall be maintained for a period of not less than 5 years 11 0 Non Radiation Hazards Each Permit Holder shall evaluate or have an evaluation made of non radiation hazards This evaluation shall include electrocution chemical cutting edge compressed gases noise confined space fire
28. ssccssssscccsssscccssssccccssssccesssssccsssssccssssscesssssccessssseesssssaesees 13 9 1 LASER SAFETY STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE REFERENCE 25 TAC 8 amp 289 301 2 13 9 2 KEY CONTROL REFERENCE 25 TAC 289 301 R 4 ccccccsscccecssscecesssseecsssceceeseseceesseceesssseceesseeeceessececssseceesueeeessaaess 14 9 3 SAFETY INTERLOCKS AND WARNING SYSTEMS REFERENCE 25 289 301 R 3 B AND 0 14 9 4 SAFETY INTERLOCKS ALTERNATIVES REFERENCE 25 289 301 3 1 11 14 9 5 TRAINING REFERENCE 25 TAC 289 301 R 3 E IN Il A c cccccssccccssscccecssececsesseceessseceesseeeceessececsseeceesaeeeceesaees 15 9 6 PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR REFERENCE 25 TAC 289 301 T 1 cc cccccssscccsssceceessececssssececssseceessececsessececssseeceesaeeeessaaess 15 9 7 MISCELLANEOUS SAFETY AND TRAINING ISSUES ecceceeeeeeseneececececeesesucaececececeeaaaececececeeseaaececeeeceseaueaeceeeseseenieaeeeeees 16 9 8 SURVEYS REFERENCE 25 289 301 W cc cccccssscccsssceceessececsessececseseceesseeecssssececssseeceesseseceessececssseeceeaaeeecesaaess 16 9 9 FIBER OPTIC TRANSMISSION REFERENCE 25 TAC 289 301 S 2 ccccccsescccecssscecsessececsssseceesaeeecsessececsseeceesaeeeessaaess 17 9 10 SKIN PROTECTION REFERENCE 25 TAC 289 301 T 2 cccssscccssssscecsssceceessscecsessececsssseceesseeeceessececsseeceesaee
29. tate Health Services DSHS for alignment calibration and or repair from a potential laser service provider before such services may be performed on class 3b or 4 lasers or other lasers that allow access through alignment calibration and or repair to class 3b or 4 lasers If a laser service provider has not been registered with the Texas DSHS for laser alignment calibration and or repair a Registration for Laser Services form RC Form 301 4 can completed by the provider Information regarding the RC Form 301 4 can be found on the Texas DSHS webpage under the Laser and Laser Services Registration tab http www dshs state tx us radiation laser shtm 6 7 Laser Demonstration and Sales Reference 25 TAC 289 301 g 4 EHS must receive a valid certificate of laser radiation from the Texas DSHS for demonstration and sales from a potential laser service provider before such services may be performed with class 3b or 4 lasers If a laser service provider has not been registered with the Texas DSHS for demonstration and sales a Registration for Laser Services form RC Form 301 4 can completed by the provider Information regarding the RC Form 301 4 can be found on the Texas DSHS webpage under the Laser and Laser Services Registration tab http www dshs state tx us radiation laser shtm 12 7 0 Manufacture Construction Reference 25 TAC 289 301 b 4 Each laser which is manufactured from components for formal transfer to an
30. ted in accordance with the SOP requiring its use a For indoor controlled areas during tests requiring continuous operation the individual in charge of the controlled area may momentarily override the safety interlock The sole purpose is to allow access to other authorized persons if it is clearly evident that there is no optical hazard at the entry area and protective eyewear is worn by the entering person b For outdoor controlled areas such as atmospheric tests the Permit Holder must contact the Federal Aviation Administration or other appropriate agencies as necessary and must notify the LSO 30 working days prior to operation of Class 4 lasers c When removal of panels or protective covers and or overriding interlocks becomes necessary such as for servicing testing or maintenance and laser radiation exceeds the MPE a temporary controlled area must be established and posted 9 5 Training Reference 25 TAC 289 301 r 3 E iii ID a Every person who operates or works with a laser shall complete training in laser safety provided by the University or LSO approved equivalent This training is referred to as the General Laser Safety Training This training must be repeated every two years Persons completing Laser Safety Training shall also complete specific laser safety training given by the Permit Holder No person may work in a NHZ prior to completing both laser safety training classes 9 6 Protective Eyewear Reference 25 TAC
31. tice However all routine inspections should be announced and scheduled at a time that is mutually acceptable with the Permit Holder Inspection reports shall be generated by the EHS and a copy sent to the Permit Holder 18 13 2 Inspections by the Texas Department of State Health Services Inspections of EHS by the DSHS may include spot inspections of individual Permit Holders Such inspections are generally unannounced Permit Holders are requested to notify EHS when an inspection is in progress Permit Holders should keep in mind that the EHS may have duplicates of any records found to be missing By calling the EHS during the inspection and having those duplicates faxed the Permit Holder may avoid being cited for violations 14 0 Incident Reporting Reference 25 TAC 289 301 z bb Each Permit Holder shall immediately seek appropriate medical attention for the injured individual The LSO shall be notified immediately of any exposure injury involving a laser or any non injury incident near miss which involves potential exposure to laser radiation exceeding the MPE A written summary of an injury or non injury incident shall be forwarded to the LSO not later than five working days following the incident Records of any incident shall be maintained by the Permit Holder If a laser incident occurs a Report of Injury form shall be completed 15 0 Emergencies The staff ofthe EHS is on call for emergency response 24 hours per day seve
32. tion does not include transfer of lasers to EHS for disposal Transfer refers to a change in custody or control of any laser Any custom built or modified laser systems cannot be transferred off of TAMU s campus Those systems MUST be disposed of or rendered inoperable by the EHS staff 6 3 1 1 Within Texas A amp M University 1 Ifa Permit Holder would like to transfer the laser to another registered Permit Holder the Permit Holder will have to fill out a transfer form which requires the signatures of both Permit Holders Once approval from the LSO is received the physical transfer will take place OR 2 If the Permit Holder is transferring the laser to another individual without a current permit the following information must be sent to EHS prior to the transfer a new permit application for the proposed recipient which must be approved by the RSC b Transfer form requiring both signatures Once approval from the LSO is given the physical transfer will take place 6 3 1 2 To Another Entity If a Permit Holder would like to transfer the laser to another entity the entity must possess a Certificate of Registration for Lasers from the state A copy of the Certificate of Registration for Lasers must be provided to EHS The Permit Holder will have to fill out a transfer form which requires the signatures of both the Permit Holder and the registered entity Once approval from the LSO is received the physical transfer
33. ues Any request for exemption or waiver of these information requirements shall be addressed by the LSO on a case by case basis upon petition from the person who possesses the laser Multiple semiconductor lasers may be registered as an array if so designed Class 3b or Class 4 semiconductor lasers must be individually permitted and a means for tracking these lasers must be provided by the Permit Holder 6 2 Permit Renewal Texas A amp M University Laser Permits are valid for two years EHS shall send a request for renewal of the laser permit to each Permit Holder The request shall also include a list of the Permit Holder s inventory The Permit Holder shall indicate intent of renewal or termination of the laser permit and must return the document including all corrections to inventory and bearing the signature of the Permit Holder to EHS Upon receipt EHS will take proper actions whether to issue an updated permit to the Permit Holder or to start the termination process of the laser permit 6 3 Removal from Registration Laser Permit Holders of a Class 3b or Class 4 laser that is rendered permanently inoperative by disassembly or destruction or which is removed from the University s control by disposal or transfer to a non University entity shall provide information regarding the condition and destination to the LSO prior to its inoperative state or removal 10 6 3 1 Transfer of Lasers Transfer of lasers as used in this sec
34. versity AJM TEXAS A amp M Office of Radiological Safety Nit e Rvs it Texas A amp M University Laser Safety Program Laser Transfer Form LASER TRANSFERRED FROM Permittee Name Permittee Number Date of Transfer Serial Number s amp Model s Manufacturer s Total amount of Lasers being transferred Approved By Permittee From signature LASER TRANSFERRED TO Permittee Name Permittee Number Registration Number s office use only Approved By Permittee To signature
35. will take place 6 3 2 Disposal of Lasers If the Permit Holder would like to dispose of a laser the LSO must be notified prior to the physical removal of the laser from the authorized room Upon notification EHS will both confirm inoperability of the laser and label the device showing approval to surplus 11 6 4 Sabbaticals and Absences of 28 days or greater Permit Holders shall notify EHS at least 28 days prior to the beginning of the sabbatical or extended leave The Permit Holder shall 1 Arrange for another Permit Holder to oversee ongoing operations and recordkeeping and be available to laboratory personnel for routine or emergency assistance a Documentation of temporary delegation of authority shall be signed by both Permit Holders and delivered to EHS for approval OR 2 Transfer all lasers to EHS for disposal 6 5 Inventory of Lasers Each Permit Holder shall maintain accurate inventory records at all times EHS shall send a laser inventory to each Permit Holder typically once every six months The Permit Holder shall physically locate each item on that inventory add any Class 3b or Class 4 which do not appear on the inventory sign and date the inventory return the report bearing the signature and keep a copy for the Permit Holder s records until superseded 6 6 Laser Services and Repair Reference 25 TAC 289 301 g 6 EHS must receive a valid certificate of laser radiation from the Texas Department of S
36. y administrative alignment safety and standard operating procedures while operating the laser 2 Keeping the Laser Permit Holder fully informed of any departure from established safety procedures 3 Clearing all non essential personnel from the established Nominal Hazard Zone 4 Ensuring the proper use of personal protective equipment during laser use 6 5 Assisting in maintaining proper postings of work areas and labeling of laser producing equipment 6 Being familiar with laser safety precautions and training required in their specific work areas 7 Notifying the LSO and Permit Holder immediately of any accidents involving a laser 5 0 Laser Hazard Classification To provide a basis for laser safety requirements all lasers laser systems and or devices in the United States are classified into one of four classes Classification of lasers shall be in accordance with US Food and Drug Administration FDA or American National Standards Institute specification ANSI Z136 1 Each Class 3b or Class 4 laser at the University shall be registered and shall have a Permit issued by the LSO For custom built and modified lasers the Permit Holder must perform measurements e g power level wavelength etc to provide EHS appropriate classification of the system Arrays of semiconductor lasers shall require a permit if the cumulative power exceeds Class 3a limits Lasers which are classified as 3a or lower but which contain a Class 3b or
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