PerkinElmer RamanFlex 400, Getting Started Manual

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Safety Practices . 23
Triggered Fiber Optic Probe Safety
When attached to the RamanFlex 400, a triggered fiber optic probe (TFOP) provides a
focused beam of Class 3B laser radiation. During normal operation, laser radiation is
accessible from the end of the probe.
The following precautions must be observed at all times:
• Keep the protective cover in place on the probe tip when the probe is not in use.
If you are using the TFOP with a plastic spacer, always rotate the spacer so that the
screw is beneath the probe barrel when not in use; when in this position the spacer acts
as a lens cap.
•
Never look directly into the laser beam or at the laser light scattered from a reflective
surface or sample. Permanent eye-injury may result. Do NOT attempt to examine the
probe tip when the Path Active light on the probe is lit.
• Post warning signs near the laser operating areas.
• Controlled access areas, limited to individuals trained in the safe operation of lasers, are
suggested for laser operations.
•
When the probe is in use, always ensure that no stray laser radiation is directed at
people in the vicinity.
•
Use protective laser safety goggles, with an optical density (OD) of at least 3 at 785 nm,
as a precaution against accidental exposure to the direct or reflected laser light. Suitable
goggles are available from PerkinElmer (part number L1323518).
• Do not use the TFOP if it shows any sign of damage.
• If repair or servicing is needed, call your PerkinElmer Service Representative for advice.
For further safety details, see the
Raman Triggered Fiber Optic Probe
leaflet (L1321887)
Calculation of Nominal Hazard Zones for use of Fiber Optic Probe
The following calculations show how to calculate a nominal hazard zone. These calculations
are taken from ANSI Z136.1-1933. A laser safety officer uses these calculations to help
define how to use your Raman probe safely in your environment.
Figure 3 Probe parameters used to calculate the nominal ocular hazard distance
The equation for a focused beam as given here (Figure B5 in ANSI Z136.1-1933) is used to
calculate the nominal ocular hazard distance (NOHD) for the fiber optic probe. The equation
is:
2
1
. Π
Φ 4












=
MPE b
f
NOHD
o
o
b
o
f
o
NOHD