Universal Laser Systems PLS4.75, User Manual

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Laser Safety When Using the Optional Class 4 Module (ILS Laser System Only)
ILS laser systems are equipped with interlocked access doors on either side of the unit. An optional device is
available to allow the user to operate the laser system with the side doors open. This device bypasses the safety
interlocks on the side doors of the ILS laser system. With this optional device in place, the protective system
housing will not fully contain the infrared laser radiation produced by the carbon dioxide laser, creating the
potential for exposure. Use of this optional device redefines the safety classification of the ILS laser system from
Class 1, which is considered safe for use under all conditions of normal use, to Class 4, which is considered
potentially hazardous. Additionally, the system housing will not contain flames or by-products from potential
ignition of materials within the system housing. It should also be noted that damage or ignition of flammable
materials in the immediate or remote vicinity can be caused by infrared laser radiation escaping the housing of a
system equipped with the Class 4 Laser Option.
There are many mandatory safety measures set by national standards and laws and European standards
which must be complied with when operating a Class 4 laser system.
Certain safety measures are provided
by the manufacturer through incorporation into the optional Class 4 laser device, including the following:
1. Remote Interlock Connection – A means of remotely connecting to the interlock circuit of the laser
system allowing connection of remote switches to the laser system for deactivating the laser. This feature
must be used to connect an interlock switch to the doors of the designated room in which the laser
system will be operated so that the laser is automatically deactivated when the doors are open.
2. Key Control – A removable key that prevents unauthorized operation of the laser.
3. Laser Radiation Emission Warning Device – A visible warning light that indicates when the laser is
capable of emitting laser radiation.
4. Attenuator – A mechanical device to block emission of laser radiation. This device takes the form of a
shutter which is manually operated.
5. Class 4 Warning Label – A Class 4 warning label to indicate the laser system is classified as Class 4.
In addition to a properly installed exterior exhaust connected to the laser system equipped with the Class 4 Laser
Option, the laser system must be operated only in a continuously well-ventilated area. Certain operational safety
measures are the responsibility of owners of the ILS laser system with the optional Class 4 laser device installed.
These safety measures are mandatory for operation of Class 4 laser devices under Federal and State law
in the United States as well as under the laws of most foreign countries.
Many of these safety measures are
outlined in ANSI Standard Z136.1 “American National Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers” or in equivalent
standards available in most foreign countries, such as the European Standard EN 60825-1. Other safety
measures may be required by state and/or local authorities, for example, the Regulation BGV B2 on laser beams
of the German Employer’s Liability Insurance Association, and will be the responsibility of the Owner to
understand and adhere to these laws. A brief synopsis of the most common safety requirements ad- dressed to
Owners of a Class 4 laser is outlined below:
1. In any facility in which a Class 4 laser system is to be operated, an individual must be designated as a
Laser Safety Officer (“LSO”) who will assume the authority and responsibility to monitor and enforce the
control of laser hazards. The individual designated as the LSO should be trained in laser safety and
aware of all safety measures set by law. There are many avenues available to acquire this training.
Recognized sources of this training are the Laser Institute of America
(www.laserinstitute.org), the
Employer’s Insurance Liability Associations in the European countries or, laser safety associations within
Owner’s country or territory.
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