User guide

Link to Table of Contents
User Guide
294
ULS Reference Guide Book
Laser Safety When Using the Optional Class 4 Module (ILS Only)
The Industrial Laser Series (ILS) laser system is equipped with interlocked access doors on either side of the unit. An
optional device is available to allow the user to operate the laser system with the side doors open. This device
bypasses the safety interlocks on the side doors of the ILS laser system. With this optional device in place, the protective
system housing will not fully contain the infrared laser radiation produced by the carbon dioxide laser, creating the potential
for exposure. Use of this optional device redenes the safety classication of the ILS
laser system from Class 1, which is considered safe for use under all conditions of normal use, to Class 4, which is considered
potentially hazardous. Additionally, the system housing will not contain ames or by-products from potential ignition of
materials within the system housing. It should also be noted that damage or ignition of ammable materials in the immedi-
ate or remote vicinity can be caused by infrared laser radiation escaping the housing of a system equipped with the Class 4
Laser Option.
There are many mandatory safety measures set by national standards and laws and European standards which
must be complied with when operating a Class 4 laser system. Certain safety measures are provided by the manufac-
turer through incorporation into the optional Class 4 laser device, including the following:
Remote Interlock Connection1. – A means of remotely connecting to the interlock circuit of the laser system
allowing connection of remote switches to the laser system for deactivating the laser. This feature must be used
to connect an interlock switch to the doors of the designated room in which the laser system will be operated
so that the laser is automatically deactivated when the doors are open.
Key Control2. – A removable key that prevents unauthorized operation of the laser.
Laser Radiation Emission Warning Device3. – A visible warning light that indicates when the laser is capable of
emitting laser radiation.
Attenuator4. – A mechanical device to block emission of laser radiation. This device takes the form of a shutter
which is manually operated.
Class 4 Warning Label5. – A Class 4 warning label to indicate the laser system is classied as Class 4.
In addition to a properly installed exterior exhaust connected to the laser system equipped with the Class 4 Laser Option,
the laser system must be operated only in a continuously well-ventilated area. Certain operational safety measures are
the responsibility of owners of the ILS laser system with the optional Class 4 laser device installed. These safety measures
are mandatory for operation of Class 4 laser devices under Federal and State law in the United States as well as un-
der the laws of most foreign countries. Many of these safety measures are outlined in ANSI Standard Z136.1 “American
National Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers” or in equivalent standards available in most foreign countries, such as the
European Standard EN 60825-1. Other safety measures may be required by state and/or local authorities, for example, the
Regulation BGV B2 on laser beams of the German Employer’s Liability Insurance Association, and will be the responsibility
of the Owner to understand and adhere to these laws.. A brief synopsis of the most common safety requirements ad-
dressed to Owners of a Class 4 laser is outlined below:
In any facility in which a Class 4 laser system is to be operated, an individual must be designated as a Laser A.
Safety Ocer (“LSO”) who will assume the authority and responsibility to monitor and enforce the control of
laser hazards. The individual designated as the LSO should be trained in laser safety and aware of all safety
measures set by law. There are many avenues available to acquire this training. Recognized sources of this training
are the Laser Institute of America (www.laserinstitute.org), the Employer’s Insurance Liability Associations in the
European countries or, laser safety associations within Owner’s country or territory.
The Owner of the Class 4 laser system will be responsible for creation of a controlled area in which a Class 4 laser B.
system will be operated. A controlled area is an area designed to fully contain the laser radiation potentially escap-
ing from a Class 4 laser system. and with measures in place to prevent unauthorized personnel from entering the
area including lighted warning signs outside the designated and controlled area and interlocks on entryways.
The LSO will be responsible for designating and training all personnel authorized to operate, maintain or C.
service a Class 4 laser system. It will also be the responsibility of the LSO to take measures to inform and restrict
all unauthorized personnel from access to a Class 4 laser system.
The Owner of the Class 4 laser system will be responsible for identifying and providing to all authorized personnel D.