General rules for the operation of lasers
- Before using any laser, ascertain its class and acquaint yourself with the special rules and restrictions which apply to that class of laser.
- Ensure that you have studied any Risk Assessment and experimental protocols relating to the laser (these should exist for any laser of class 3B or 4).
- Under no circumstances may the output of a laser be viewed along its beam-path either directly, by specular reflection or with the aid of an optical instrument. In other words, NEVER LET A LASER BEAM ENTER YOUR EYE.
- Always ensure that the laser beam cannot extend beyond its useful limit. A suitable beam-stop must be used to prevent the beam from leaving the experimental area.
- Do not use a laser of a higher class than is necessary for the purposes of the experiment.
- Do not tamper with an experimental setup in such a way as to negate the safety precautions and beam-limiting devices that have been incorporated.
- Where an instrument incorporates a laser whose beam-path is protected by shielding and interlocks, DO NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES interfere with or attempt to override those precautions.
- At the conclusion of an experiment, ensure that the laser is switched off or returned to a safe condition. NEVER LEAVE AN ACTIVE LASER UNATTENDED.
- Never forget that a laser is a potentially dangerous power-source, and not a toy. Anyone found misusing a laser in any way will be subject to disciplinary action, and may be prevented from further use of lasers.
- Always remember that you are responsible for the safety of others as well as yourself. Always design and operate experiments in such a way as to eliminate all foreseeable dangers.
- Guard against other, non-optical hazards associated with lasers, such as high voltage electricity, charged capacitor-banks, toxic chemicals for dye-lasers etc.
