|
General Information
A laser is
a device that produces an intense, coherent, directional
beam of non-ionizing radiation by stimulating electronic
or molecular transitions to lower energy levels.
The word
laser is actually an acronym for:
Light
Amplification by the Stimulated Emission
of Radiation.
Lasers produce
beams in the following regions of the electromagnetic
spectrum:
- Ultraviolet
(invisible), wavelengths from 100 nm to 400 nm
- Visible
light, wavelengths from 400 nm to 770 nm
- Near Infrared
(invisible) wavelengths from 770 nm to 1100 nm, and
- Far Infrared
(invisible), wavelengths from 1100 nm to 1 millimeter
The Rutgers
Laboratory Laser Safety Program establishes requirements
and responsibilities for all students, faculty, and
staff that use class 3b and 4 open beam laser systems
to protect employees from potential beam (eye and skin)
and non-beam (chemical exposure, electrical shock) hazards.
There are
many laser devices, such as laser pointers, laser printers,
and laboratory analytical equipment that are not hazardous
when used according to the manufacturer's instruction.
REHS will note and audit laboratory equipment that have
these embedded lasers to determine whether or not these
devices may be hazardous if improperly operated or if
the safety devices are defeated for repair and service
activities.
|
