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Post warning signs in all areas where Class 3b and 4 lasers are used. Include specific information on the sign regarding the laser hazards, and otherwise comply with the ANSI Z136.1-2000 standard for these signs. Consult with the LSO on selection of proper laser warning signs. Display warning signs conspicuously in locations chosen to most effectively warn personnel of potential safety hazards.

The UNC-Chapel Hill policy on laser safety requires that all lasers and laser systems be operated in accordance with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z136.1 2000, "the Safe Use of Lasers;" and other applicable federal and state regulations. To implement the policy properly while giving the greatest possible latitude to the researcher, all laser operations at UNC-Chapel Hill must be reviewed and approved by the UNC-Chapel Hill Laser Safety Officer (LSO).

The template illustrated in Appendix A is to be followed when preparing written laser safety operating procedures (LSOP). A written procedure is to include all lasers in a laser system, including alignment lasers. This LSOP must be reviewed and approved by the LSO.

Report any injuries immediately to University Employee Occupational Health Clinic, which is located at 145 North Medical Drive and is open between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday – Friday (except holidays). If an incident occurs after-hours, call Health Link, 919-966-7890. Any and all serious injuries should be taken directly to the Emergency Department.

Purchasing Office notifies EHS when orders are placed. LSO will maintain a central inventory of lasers on campus. ALUs are required to report acquisition or fabrication of such devices to the EHS by completing schedule E of Laboratory Safety plan. Annual inventories of all lasers will be conducted by LSO. Contact LSO before transferring or disposing of any lasers.

Since infrared (IR) and ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths are normally invisible to human eyes, they possess a higher hazard potential than visible light lasers. Therefore, the use of laser eyewear that will protect against the exposure is required at all times during laser operations.

Operators of class 3b and 4 lasers or laser systems must, prior to working with the laser(s), successfully complete Laser Safety training online as offered by the LSO and obtain specific laser training from ALU for the laser(s).

Use engineering controls (i.e. enclose the entire beam path) whenever possible to eliminate the need for laser protective eyewear. Wear approved laser protective eyewear as appropriate when working in the controlled area of a class 3b or 4 laser or laser system in an open beam configuration. Consult with the LSO on selection of appropriate laser protective eyewear for each laser.

Requirements and recommendations for Class 3b and 4 Lasers.

Lasers are divided into a number of classes depending upon the power or energy of the beam and the wavelength of the emitted radiation. Laser classification is based on the laser's potential for causing immediate injury to the eye or skin and/or potential for causing fires from direct exposure to the beam or from reflections from diffuse reflective surfaces. The manufacturer provides the classification for most lasers.

All personnel operating lasers must follow general laser safety training from EHS and any manufacturer's laser-specific safety guidelines for the laser they are operating.

The template illustrated in the Sample Laser Standard Operating Procedure is to be followed when preparing written laser safety operating procedures (LSOP). A written procedure is to include all lasers in a laser system, including alignment lasers. This LSOP must be reviewed and approved by the LSO.