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Risk Assessment for Schools
The following risk assessment is provided to cover the use of laser cutters/engravers in schools to cut plastics, rubber, wood, card and textiles as an example of CAD/CAM.
It has been formatted in the style of CLEAPSS. Please note that all of the laser cutters supplied by Technology Supplies are Class 3a lasers (Class 1 without the red beam
pointer) not Class 4. The information gathered here assumes a worst case scenario with regard to the use of a laser cutter and highlights the general risks that could be
encountered.
Class 4 lasers must never be used in schools but, when enclosed, the classification of the whole system is reduced to class 1, which is acceptable. Many models incorporate
a low-power, visible (red) beam alongside the invisible, high-powered cutting beam. Whenever the machine is in operation, it must be assumed that where ever the visible
red beam is seen on the material, the invisible one is also present.
Burns
Provided the laser beams are totally enclosed (reducing the hazard class of the system to 1), this risk is minimal.
Blinding
Provided the laser beams are totally enclosed (reducing the hazard class of the system to 1), this risk is minimal.
High Voltage
Provided the electrical supplies to the tube are totally enclosed, this risk is minimal.
Toxic Fumes
PVC and polyurethane foams present a serious risk. Some plastics, rubber and MDF can give rise to harmful fumes.
- An interlock if fitted to all models to prevent access to the working area during laser operation whilst the laser is firing. The interlock system will also not
allow the laser to be fired without the extraction unit on. This device is essential and it must not be over-ridden.
- Servicing MUST only be carried out by a manufacture authorised and trained technician to control the high voltage risk as well as risks from the beam.
- PVC and polyurethane foams should not be cut even with LEV in use.
PVC, PTFE, Plastazone, Teflon and some styrenes will produce corrosive fumes that will be harmful to health, damage the mechanics of the
machine and invalidate the warranty. The user is responsible at all times for the health and safety of themselves and the people around
the machine with regards to the chosen materials.
Burns
Class 4 (high-power) lasers can cause severe burns to skin.
Blinding
Class 4 lasers can cause blinding if a reflected beam enters the eye; the invisible infra-red radiation from a Co2 laser renders the cornea of the eye
opaque in a fraction of a second.
High Voltage
The gas filled tubes used as the source of the radiation operate at hazardous live potentials.
Toxic Fumes
The use of the laser to cut PVC generates toxic vinyl chloride and other decomposition products. Polyurethane foams may give hydrogen cyanide
and nitrogen oxides when heated by the beam.
Harmful Particles
The cutting process releases fine particles and decomposition products from the materials being cut. Rubber will produce a mixture of pyrolysis
products, including some harmful ones
.
General Information
Hazards
General Information
Control Measures
