Documentation
All registered laser systems should have a copy of the SOP or operating manual. Laser logs should be kept with laser unit. Pertinent laser procedure information, and laser dosimetry should be written on the laser log.
The LSO may change, add or eliminate information on the laser log as deem appropriate. The use of a laser log does not preclude or replace the need for patient charting as required by law, and policy.
Laser Safety/Operational Checklists
An abbreviated checklist for proper laser setup, operation and safety shall be utilized by the dedicated laser assistant for each laser case. The checklist shall be determined by the LSO, and may be altered by the LSO as deemed necessary.
Laser Acquisition, Transfer, and Disposal
Notify the LSO of any decision to purchase laser equipment or otherwise acquire a Class 3b or Class 4 laser. The LSO will review with the user the hazards of the proposed operation and make recommendations regarding the specific safety requirements that pertain to the proposed use, including requirements for SOPs, laser control areas, training, and personnel protective equipment.
Also notify the LSO of any class 3b or 4 laser or laser system being relocated, transferred to another department, or sent offsite as surplus equipment. Departments have an obligation to ensure safe and responsible disposition of their unneeded, but potentially hazardous, class 3b or 4 lasers and laser components. Appropriate means of laser disposal include:
- Donate the laser to an organization (e.g. school, industrial company, hospital) with a need for such a device. The donor should ensure that the donated laser system complies with all applicable product safety standards, such as the Federal Laser Product Performance Standard, and is provided with adequate safety instructions for operations and maintenance. The donor should also verify that the receiving organization has a viable laser safety program.
- Return the laser to the manufacturer, or to a vendor specializing in re-selling used laser equipment or components.
- Eliminate the possibility of activating the laser by removing all means by which it can be electrically activated. Once this has happened the laser could then be discarded.
- Destroy the laser.
The last two methods also require proper disposal of any hazardous materials found inside the laser components, such as mercury switches, oils, dyes, etc. Users should contact the LSO if they need further information or assistance with proper disposal.
Accident Reporting
The LSO shall be responsible for notifying the Office of Risk Management within 24 hours of any accident involving a laser device. Lasers involved in an accident shall be taken out of service immediately. The LSO and Office of Risk Management shall be responsible for evaluating the accident and the safety of the laser device.
Use of Loaner Laser Equipment and Safety Accessories
Laser equipment under contract for use at VUMC should be inspected by VUMC biomedical engineering. Biomed inspection tags should be current and placed on the laser equipment. Preventive maintenance tags should be also current.
Laser safety accessories should be provided by the loaner company laser technician per laser procedure. Other safety requirements should be observed and implemented by the loaner company personnel.
Laser Registration
All Class 3b and Class 4 lasers will be registered with the Laser Safety Officer. The process is initiated by completing the laser registration. The registration will include standard operating procedures including necessary safety requirements, for all Class 3b and Class 4 lasers. Upon receipt of the completed registration form, the LSO will conduct a laser safety inspection.
Laser Safety Audit
Periodic laser safety audits shall be performed on scheduled intervals. Audits are performed by the department laser safety liaison and/or the LSO.
