Laser Protective Eyewear 
When in unshielded presence of an operating Class 3b or Class 4
laser, or when in the same room and there is any chance that the beam will become active.
Eye cover (goggles, glasses, shield) specifically designed for
protection from the class and the wavelengths in use, and which
is stamped with the optical density (OD) at the wavelength of concern.
Make ABSOLUTELY SURE the eyewear you're about the
put on is the correct protection for the wavelength(s) in use -- terrible mistakes have
been made because somebody else put goggles back in the wrong bin or
the wrong case. Do not just grab a pair and assume they're the correct ones!
If eyewear is shared, it should be cleaned before and after use with a disinfectant
towelette or mild soap and water. Eyewear is properly worn when it is comfortably
situated on head/face in a position that prevents the possibility of the beam reaching
either eye from any location. Visually inspect eyewear for damage before use and
after removal. If there is an elastic band it should be springy and firm, or it
should be replaced before the eyewear is used. Do not use eyewear with cracks or
weaknesses.
Ensure that optical density and wavelength of the eyewear is appropriate for the
beam type and energy. The optical density of laser eye protection is the log of the
reduction factor (i.e. a reduction factor of 100 is indicated by OD = 2 and OD = 6 implies
a reduction factor of one million).
Laser eyewear
is impressively expensive in most cases, and the manufacturer's instructions should be
followed carefully in order to ensure as long a lifetime as possible. When taken
good care of, they should last for years. Care and maintenance is simply a matter of
keeping them clean and protected from damage. There are no special disposal
considerations.NOTE: Laser Safety training is required for class 3b and 4 laser
users. It can be given by REM or by another qualified person (the supervisor,
typically). Contact Dr. Josh Young of REM if you wish to have assistance in
selecting correct eyewear to purchase; proper OD, visual T, and wavelength. |