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With the proliferation of inexpensive semi-conductor lasers used in laser pointers and imbedded into commercially available products, an increasing subset of devices reach the marketplace as non-compliant with regulations and standards (e.g.; 21CFR1040.10/.11 and IEC/EN60825). Many such devices are inexpensive enough to be purchased on company purchasing cards bypassing formal oversight by the Laser Safety Officer (LSO) in advance of arrival. Once in place, users have a tendency to use them immediately, especially when they are believed to be Class II/2, Class IIIa/3R or lower.Further, because of the ease with which users can obtain these and more powerful Class IIIb/3B and Class IV/4 devices, the LSO must become a Zeroth Responder — applying a high level of due diligence to ensure the safety of the user population and general public.This paper details five real incidents faced by the authors (e.g.; laser pointers, research systems, industrial systems). It goes on to provide action plans to promote the implementation, acquisition, and safety of lasers in the user space. Finally it provides a step-by-step process for LSOs to identify, intervene, and, when necessary, gather evidence to assist regulators and civil authorities when dealing with organizations that manufacture and distribute these devices.With the proliferation of inexpensive semi-conductor lasers used in laser pointers and imbedded into commercially available products, an increasing subset of devices reach the marketplace as non-compliant with regulations and standards (e.g.; 21CFR1040.10/.11 and IEC/EN60825). Many such devices are inexpensive enough to be purchased on company purchasing cards bypassing formal oversight by the Laser Safety Officer (LSO) in advance of arrival. Once in place, users have a tendency to use them immediately, especially when they are believed to be Class II/2, Class IIIa/3R or lower.Further, because of the ease with which users can obtain these and more powerful Class IIIb/3B and Class IV/4 devices, the LSO must become a Zeroth Responder — applying a high level of due diligence to ensure the safety of the user population and general public.This paper details five real incidents faced by the authors (e.g.; laser pointers, research systems, industrial systems). It goes on to provide action plans to promote the im... |
