How Laser Workers Can Protect Their Eyes

noreply@blogger.com (Paul Osborn) — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 11:26:00 +0000

Laser technology is now used in many different types of workplaces. Nurses and doctors use lasers to perform surgery, metal workers use lasers as cutting tools, and of course, laser engineers and technicians work with lasers as they further develop the technology. No matter how lasers are used, workers must protect their eyes by wearing laser protection glasses and taking other precautions.

Wear Laser Protection Glasses

The glasses that laser workers use are designed to filter out the frequency of laser light. The lenses of laser safety glasses can be colored or clear, and they contain chemicals that block all but a tiny fraction of visible light. Without laser safety eyewear, a laser worker could suffer damage to the retina or even blindness. There are different glasses made for different jobs. For example, workers who need to perform alignment use glasses that let in enough light that the laser beam is visible. Ultimately, the key to eye safety is wearing the glasses all the time in the presence of laser beams, even if not working with them directly.

Label The Area Where Lasers Are In Use

When lasers are in use, the area should be clearly labeled and, if possible, enclosed by walls or curtains. Only authorized personnel who have had safety training and who are using appropriate protective wear should be allowed in that area while lasers are in use.

Minimize Reflected Or Scattered Light

A laser worker's eyes can be damaged not only by looking directly at a laser but also by looking at reflected light. Therefore, it is very important to remove anything shiny from the area where the laser is used. This includes shiny surfaces (if possible) and even jewelry and watches. Even a tiny crystal gemstone could reflect a dangerous beam of light into someone's eyes. Installing beam blocks is another protective measure that keeps scattered light from laser beams within a certain perimeter.

Maximize Ambient Light

It is safest to work with lasers in a brightly lit room. Bright ambient light keeps the worker's pupils contracted. The more pupils are dilated, the more damage a laser can do to the retina.

Report Accidents Immediately

In the case of accidental exposure to laser light, it's very important to report the accident and get help right away. If there is any chance that a worker has sustained eye damage, he or she should see an ophthalmologist as soon as possible.

Every workplace where lasers are used should have well-defined safety standards and training systems in place. All workers must be aware of the risks they will encounter, know how to minimize them, and have the tools to do so.