Section 315.90  Laser Safety Officer Qualifications, Duties and Responsibilities

a)         Every operator of a laser installation shall ensure that the designated laser safety officer has qualifications that include training, experience and familiarity in the following areas:

1)         Fundamentals of laser operation;

2)         Familiarity with the type of laser equipment utilized at the facility;

3)         Biological effects of laser radiation on the eye and skin;

4)         Laser and laser system classification;

5)         Control measures;

6)         Nonradiation hazards of lasers;

7)         Medical surveillance practices (if applicable);

8)         Laser terminology; and

9)         Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) levels for eye and skin for all lasers and for all conditions of use of laser systems at the facility.

b)         Every operator of a laser installation shall ensure that the following specific duties are carried out by the laser safety officer:

1)         Establish and implement a program of laser radiation safety for effective compliance with the requirements of this Part.

2)         Ensure that instructions concerning hazards and safety practices are provided to individuals who may be exposed to laser radiation and to individuals who operate lasers.

3)         Permit, on behalf of the registrant, operation of lasers only by individuals who have:

A)        Been trained in the safe use of the laser in accordance with Section 315.100 of this Part; and

B)        Received copies of and instruction in the registrant's operating and emergency procedures.

            AGENCY NOTE:  In facilities where more than one practitioner or operator may use lasers, a laser safety committee should be formed to oversee laser activity, establish use criteria and approve operating policies and procedures.

4)         Ensure that all laser systems in operation meet the requirements of this Part, and that prescribed control measures are in effect.  The laser safety officer may recommend and approve substitute or alternative control measures when the primary control measures are not feasible or practical. Accordingly, if alternative control measures are instituted, those personnel directly affected shall be provided appropriate training.

5)         Periodically audit the functionality of control measures in use.