A comprehensive resource for safe and responsible laser use

1-page “instant” Laser Safety Officer course

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration has an excellent Laser Hazards webpage. It contains a summary of information that would normally be covered in a Laser Safety Officer course.

The OSHA webpage is highly recommended for anyone wanting more in-depth information.

Note that this website, LaserPointerSafety.com, is focused on the hazards of visible consumer lasers such as laser pointers and, to a lesser extent, laser light shows. The OSHA webpage covers additional types of lasers such as infrared and ultraviolet lasers, and lasers used for industry, research, medicine, etc.

What the OSHA webpage covers

Table of Contents

Introduction
Nonbeam Laser Hazards
Biological Effects of the Laser Beam
Laser Hazard Classifications
Investigational Guidelines
Control Measures and Safety Programs
Bibliography

Appendices

Appendix III:6-1. FDA-CDRH Requirements for Laser Products
Appendix III:6-2. FDA-CDRH Federal Laser Product Performance Standard Evaluation Outline
Appendix III:6-3. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
Appendix III:6-4. Warning Signs
Appendix III:6-5. Glossary of Laser Terms