Development and implementation of a Laser Safety Program

The Office of Radiological Safety (ORS), part of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS), at the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) was tasked with developing and implementing a comprehensive Laser Safety Program (LSP) for Class 3B and 4 lasers. This was the first non-ionizing radiation safety responsibility for ORS. A Laser Safety Committee (LSC) was established, a written policy and online training developed, and hazard assessments performed. The process that was followed is described, including how developing an accurate inventory of lasers, obtaining support from the Georgia Tech Administration, and meeting with Chairs of departments using lasers were all crucial to the successful development and implementation of the program.