SAFE LASER APPLICATION REQUIRES MORE THAN LASER SAFETY

An overview is presented concerning aspects of laser safety in Europea n industrial laser use. Surveys indicate that there is a large variati on in the safety strategies amongst industrial laser users. Some key p roblem areas are highlighted. Emission of hazardous substances is a ma jor problem for users of laser material processing systems where the m ajority of the particulate is of a sub-micrometre size, presenting a r espiratory hazard. Studies show that in many cases emissions are not f requently monitored in factories and uncertainty exists over the hazar ds. Operators of laser machines do not receive adequate job training o r safety training. The problem is compounded by a plethora of regulati ons and standards which are difficult to interpret and implement, and inspectors who are not conversant with the technology or the issues. A case is demonstrated for a more integrated approach to laser safety, taking into account the development of laser applications, organizatio nal and personnel development, in addition to environmental and occupa tional health and safety aspects. It is necessary to achieve a harmoni zation between these elements in any organization involved in laser te chnology. This might be achieved through establishing technology trans fer centres in laser technology.