Under the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 [1] employers are required to protect workers eyes and skin from the risks to health from hazardous sources of artificial optical radiation (AOR). Health and Safety Executive guidance on the implementation of these Regulations is provided in Guidance for Employers on the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations (AOR) 2010 [2].
The majority of light sources (e.g. overhead and task lighting, computer screens, photocopiers and printers) are safe and no action needs to be taken under these regulations. However, some sources of light can cause a risk of ill health such as damage and burns to the skin and eyes. If a hazardous source of light, such as a dental laser (Class 3B or 4) is used, control measures must be put in place to reduce the risk of harm to staff to as low as reasonably practicable. The British Standards define 8 classes of laser products, Class 3B and Class 4 are used in clinical dental practice.
The general provision of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (as amended) [3] also apply. Therefore, a risk assessment should be carried out and appropriate risk management provisions put in place as follows:
Appoint a Laser Protection Adviser (LPA) who may be a suitably experienced member of staff or external consultant. The LPA must be qualified to provide guidance on laser safety protocols and practices. NB: Appointment of a LPA is a requirement of practice inspection.
In consultation with the LPA:
- undertake an initial risk assessment
- designate a ‘laser controlled area’
- establish local rules and ensure these are observed e.g. determining the safety controls
Appoint a Laser Safety Officer (often known as a Laser Protection Supervisor (LPS)). The LPS should have suitable training and is responsible for ensuring day-to-day safe use of lasers and overseeing compliance with the employers Local Rules.
Register the use of the laser with Health Improvement Scotland (HIS) or other regulator
Display warning signs at entrances to the room containing the laser controlled area. Signs should comply with Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 [4] and relevant standards such as BS EN 60825-1 [5]
Provide face shields, goggles or other protective eyewear for both staff and patients.
Provide gloves and coveralls to staff where appropriate.
Provide appropriate documented training to all persons working with the equipment.
Obtain informed consent from patients where a laser is to be used in their treatment.
Provide health surveillance for employees, if skin or eyes are affected by laser use
Ensure fire prevention measures are in place
Implement a maintenance schedule for equipment with inspections carried out by a competent person
Develop a Quality Assurance system for staff to check equipment
Put in place procedures to report critical incidents where a member of staff or patient is potentially over-exposed e.g. referral to a doctor or occupational health service.
More advice on the safe use of lasers in dental treatment can be found in the MHRA publication Lasers, intense light source systems and LEDs guidance for safe use in medical, surgical, dental and aesthetic practices [4].
Sources of information
- The Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010
- Guidance for employers on the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations (AOR) 2010
- Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
- Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations
- Safety of laser products: Part 1. Equipment classification and requirements BS EN 60825-1: 2014.
- Lasers, intense light source systems and LEDs - guidance for safe use in medical surgical, dental and aesthetic practices. Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (2015)