Laser Safety Program

Updated October 9, 2012

Lasers are used throughout the University community in research and teaching. Since the use of this technology constitutes a potential hazard to health, the possession and use of lasers is governed in the workplace by Manitoba Workplace Safety and Health. Effective February 1, 2007, the University of Manitoba has the duty to inform anyone that may be exposed to radiation from lasers at the University of the potential hazards (MB 217/2006 Workplace safety and Health Regulation Section18.4). Additionally, lasers must be installed, used and maintained in accordance with ANSI Z136.1-2007 American National Standard for the safe use of Lasers (Section 16.28). High- powered lasers (Class 3B or Class 4) may be hazardous under direct or reflected viewing and may cause eye injury, skin damage or fire conditions. Careful attention to heed warning signs on doors and asking questions of the laser operators will reduce the risk.

(ANSI Z136.1-2007 is available by contacting EHSO - 204 789-3613)

The University of Manitoba has created a Laser Committee (terms of reference) to oversee the development of a Laser Safety Program.

The Environmental Health And Safety Office (EHSO) maintains a registry of all Class 3B and Class 4 lasers in areas under the control of the University.

University Laser Inventory form - print, complete and fax to 789-3906 to register your laser equipment with EHSO.

University of Manitoba Laser Safety Resources:

Laser Emergency Response - Treatment Protocol (pdf) - PLEASE POST in all Laser Facilities with open beam Class 3B or Class 4 Lasers

Laser Safety Information pdf Power Point in pdf (includes a certificate of completion)

A competency test is available from EHSO. Contact the Assistant Radiation Safety Coordinator at 204 789-3654 for more information.

Control Measures for Class 3b and 4 Lasers (EHSO Word Doc)

Laser Area / Room Warning sign (EHSO Laser Warning templates: see 1 below): Each entrance to a laser room is where a Class 3B or 4 Laser is used must have a laser area/ room warning sign in addition toWorkplace Hazard Information Placard WHIP sign. To get your individualized Laser Warning sign (free of charge):

Fill in the details for your laser in the Class 3B template or Class 4 template
Email the form to EHSO together with the location and number of door/entrances to the laser room to radsafe@umanitoba.ca.
EHSO will provide and place a red frame and a color print-out using your submitted template on each door to any University location where a Class 3B or 4 laser is used.