Possible Solutions

The following references provide possible solutions for laser hazards in the workplace.

• OSHA Technical Manual (OTM). OSHA Directive TED 01-00-015 [TED 1-0.15A], (January 20, 1999).
  • FDA/CDRH Requirements for Laser Products. Contains a table of regulatory requirements for each class of laser.
  • Warning Signs. Provides images of some laser warning signs.
• Control of Smoke from Laser/Electric Surgical Procedures. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Publication No. 96-128, (1996). During surgical procedures using a laser or electrosurgical unit, the thermal destruction of tissue creates a smoke byproduct. Research studies have confirmed that this smoke plume can contain toxic gases and vapors.