Laser Safety, 2nd Edition

2Who Is Responsible for Laser Safety?

Ken Barat

Introduction

If one reads any ANSI Laser Standard, in particular Z136.1, Z136.3, and Z136.8, it would appear the laser safety officer (LSO) has the overwhelming responsibility for laser safety. This fact is firm, and without someone responsible for laser safety it will not happen. As with any activity, there are really many parties that play a role. In the case of laser safety, several groups have a role to play in providing, performing, or evaluating laser safety. A common word today or expression is “Line Management Accountability” pushing down safety responsibility to the user level. Regardless it is the role of the LSO to either see that controls are being carried out or help develop those ...