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The POLYLASE LP Laser is a long pulse dual output Alexandrite and Nd:YAG laser
operating at 755 nanometers (nm) and 1064 nm in the near-infrared (IR) light spectrum.
The laser light is emitted from the end of an optical fiber with a cooled handpiece. When
the laser is directed to the tissue being treated there is little chance of health care worker
exposure. However, as with any device, precautions must be taken to ensure there are no
unintended injuries.
The ANSI Z136.1 standard uses the concept of Nominal Hazard zone (NHZ). The NHZ
is an indication of the distances a laser may be capable of exceeding the Maximum
Permissible Exposure (MPE) and therefore cause eye injury. Persons within the NHZ
may, under ideal conditions for laser reflections, be exposed to levels of laser radiation
above the MPE.
The POLYLASE LP Pulsed Alexandrite and Nd:YAG Laser produces a maximum
possible output of 70 J/cm
2
or fluence, also known as energy dosage, or called radiant
exposure. The MPE for long pulse Alexandrite and Nd:YAG Laser is given in ANSI
Z136.1 as 2.3 x 10
-5
J/cm
2
. Using the equations in Appendix B of ANSI Z136.1, the NHZ
for this laser has a radius of approximately 11 meters, or 36 feet. This means that there is
a potential for exposure above the ANSI MPE within 36 feet of the laser during
operation, maintenance or service. Since this distance is larger than most installations in
which the laser is to be used, it would be safe to assume that the entire operating room or
theater is within the NHZ.
The ANSI standards contain guidance on protective procedures and administration of a
laser safety program as well as sample Standard operating Procedures. Please, follow the
recommendations of these standards. In particular, the use of safety eyewear, specific for
the Alexandrite Laser wavelength of 755 nm and Nd:YAG Laser wavelength of 1064 nm
with an adequate optical density rating (
³
OD 7) must be used for all personnel with the
potential for laser exposure. Consult with your laser safety eyewear supplier for
recommendations, or contact DDC Technologies Customer Service.
The laser system should also be placed in relation to doors or entry ways in such a
manner as to contain stray laser emissions. ANSI Z136.1 and Z136.3 contain diagrams
and suggestions on how to properly set-up a laser laboratory. Please refer to the latest
editions of these documents.
