Appendix G: Laser Applications Outside the Laboratory

Any laser system (Class 3B or 4) used outdoors for research projects (i.e. telecommunication, 3D scanning, astronomy) shall be registered with the EH&S as per the requirements of the Laser Use Authorization (LUA) Program. All Class 3R, 3B, or 4 laser systems being used on UC Berkeley property must be used in accordance with the UC Berkeley Laser Safety Program. The campus Non-Ionizing Radiation Safety Committee must approve any variation from the laser safety program.

The Principal Investigator (PI) shall inform the LSO of any lasers used outdoors for research projects. Such laser uses will need to be covered under an LUA. The Department Safety Coordinator will be responsible for informing the LSO of any indoor or outdoor applications being pursued by that department. In both cases, the application and operation of the laser system(s) shall be evaluated by the LSO to ensure that appropriate safety measures are in place prior to operation.

Meet the specified LUR safety requirements:

• The LSO will establish a Nominal Hazard Zone (NHZ)-defined as any area where the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) is exceeded.
• The NHZ must be posted and/or restricted as directed by the LSO.
• The PI must ensure that only trained personnel enter the NHZ, and that appropriate personal protective equipment is issued and used.
• The PI must ensure users are properly trained and meet the campus laser safety training requirements.
• The PI must ensure that only authorized personnel are allowed to operate the laser.
• The PI must ensure the use of any required administrative/engineering controls.
• Laser beams shall not be directed toward structures, automobiles, aircraft, or other vehicles within the NHZ unless adequate training and protective equipment are provided and used by all personnel within these structures/vehicles.
• The laser beam path shall not be maintained at eye level without LSO approval.
• FAA notification is required (for Class 3R, 3B, or 4 lasers) if the laser is being used in navigable airspace.
• Additional safety requirements may be needed as specified by the LSO.

Any Class 3B or 4 lasers used for entertainment, displays, demonstrations, or any related use intended for public viewing (indoors or outdoors) on UC Berkeley property shall be operated in accordance with federal, state, local, and campus regulations/requirements.

The operators of laser systems used for entertainment are required by law to file a “Report on Laser Light Show Display” (or a variance document), with the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health (FDA/CDRH). If the venue is outdoors and the beam(s) may terminate in navigable airspace, then the operators are also required to file a report with the Western Regional Federal Aviation Administration office (FAA).

Procedures

Cal Performances, campus departments, or campus-affiliated groups (student or otherwise) shall notify the LSO of any laser light show (indoor or outdoor) to be performed on UC Berkeley property. The LSO will request from the light show operators a copy of the CDRH required “Report on Laser Light Show Display” (or variance document) prior to the show. Upon receipt, the LSO shall review the description of the show and the operator’s safety procedures. The LSO may require additional safety measures to assure the safety of the operators, performers, or audience.

NOTE: An LUA is not normally required for laser light shows.

• The CDRH and ANSI requirements specified by the LSO must be met.
• Any audience exposure to laser radiation must not exceed the ANSI Class 1 limit.
• Operators, performers, and employees must be able to perform their duties without having to directly view laser radiation exceeding the ANSI Class 1 limit, and without being exposed to laser radiation exceeding the ANSI Class 2 limit.
• All laser scanners (including mirror balls) must incorporate proper scanning safeguards.
• If the laser is not under continuous operator control, any Class 3R, 3B, or 4 level of laser radiation cannot be closer than 6 m vertically or 2.5 m horizontally from any standing surface or standing position where the audience may be located.
• If the laser is under continuous operator control, any Class 3R, 3B, or 4 level of laser radiation cannot be closer than 3 m vertically or 2.5 m horizontally from any standing surface or standing position where the audience may be located.
• An operator with an accessible control to terminate the beam must be available if conditions become unsafe.
• FAA notification is required (for Class 3R, 3B, and 4 lasers) if the display is being used in navigable airspace.
• Additional safety requirements may be required as specified by the LSO.
• The CDRH “Report on Laser Light Show Display” forms are available from the LSO.

The campus Non-Ionizing Radiation Safety Committee must approve any exceptions to this policy. Contact the campus LSO at (510) 642-3073 or lso@berkeley.edu.

The potential for injuries from a laser light show/display is minimal if the operators observe the CDRH requirements. In the event that an individual suspects an eye injury, the operators of the laser system shall be notified immediately so that the laser beam(s) can be terminated. The event staff shall also be notified and medical attention shall be provided to the injured individual if needed. The LSO shall be informed as soon as possible should any laser injury be suspected. The LSO or his or her alternate can be contacted by calling (510) 642-3073 or off-hours (510) 642-6760.

• Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health (FDA / CDRH)
• Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
• American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z136.1) - Safe Use of Lasers
• ANSI Z136.6 (2005) for safe use of lasers outdoors