The LSO shall not delegate the authority to approve a Laser Safety Plan, but may delegate such functions as evaluations, audits, and training. Standard laser copiers , laser printers, optical scanners, or equivalent equipment will be assumed to be class 1 lasers enclosed in a protective housing and will be exempt from filing a Laser Safety Plan unless the individual or unit knows of any reason that the equipment would not be considered a class 1 laser. The LSO, along with the LSC, has the authority to request supplemental information in addition to the Laser Safety Plan as needed to accomplish a thorough and complete evaluation of the laser hazards and the control measures required to ensure safety. The LSO is available for consultation and assistance with these requirements. The use of lasers is becoming increasingly widespread in all walks of life, especially in education and research conducted at Oklahoma Safety University.
Lasers can present a variety of potentially serious hazards.
Laser radiation can cause injury to the eyes and the skin. Lethal electrical and fire hazards can also be present with high-powered lasers. Hazardous chemicals may also be used in conjunction with lasers. B. Eye and Skin Hazards Hazardous effects can occur to various parts of the eye depending on the wavelength of the laser radiation. The injuries can vary due to the variance in how tissues absorb energy.