Laser Safety

Lasers are used in a variety of ways on campus from enhancing lectures and teaching laboratories to in depth research using high powered lasers. The laser safety program covers any laser used in research or a laboratory. This exempts laser pointers, mice, and other non-research lasers.

In order to stay in compliance with the applicable standards, GWU has designed a laser safety program intended to keep individuals working around laser safe. The program is designed to comply with the American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers (ANSI Z136.1), which can be purchased from the Laser Institute of America. Click on each link to find out more:

• Laser Safety Manual –All laser owners and operators must be familiar with the details outlined in this manual. Please contact OLS or the respective DLSO for the laser system you intend to use if you have questions.

• Training - This training presentation must be reviewed by all laser operators. Operators of Class 3B and 4 laser systems need to contact OLS to set up a time for a live training seminar.

• Laser Acquisition Form –This form must be filled out for any laser used in research or a laboratory. This will be checked annually to ensure it is up to date.

• Laser Training Acknowledgement – This form needs to be on file for every operator of a laser. Please ensure it is filled out by either the trainer in a live situation, or the DLSO if only self-study training was required.