Laser Safety
helping you use lasers safely and effectively in your research and events by reducing hazards and supporting compliant, responsible work.
Aaron Wilmot
Program Applicability
The Laser Safety Program applies to Penn State employees, students, and visitors who use or work around Class 3B lasers, Class 4 lasers, or Class 1 laser systems with embedded Class 3B or Class 4 lasers. Laser classification labels are used to identify lasers covered under this program; systems with embedded higher‑class lasers include additional labeling.
This program most commonly applies to laboratory researchers and their associates, but also covers laser use in instructional, technical, and other University settings. The program exists to protect users and bystanders from laser‑related hazards and to ensure safe and compliant laser operations across the University.
Program Requirements
The Laser Safety Program establishes requirements for the safe operation, maintenance, training, and oversight of covered laser systems.
Supervisor Responsibilities
- Ensure lasers are operated and maintained safely
- Notify Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) of the acquisition, modification, transfer, or disposal of laser systems
- Develop and share written operating procedures (SOPs) for each laser system
- Identify individuals who require training and ensure required training is completed
- Provide and enforce the proper use of laser safety equipment, including laser protective eyewear, access controls, and warning signage
- Investigate reports of unsafe acts or conditions and suspend laser work until hazards are corrected
- Coordinate with EHS to schedule routine laser audits of laboratories and equipment
Responsibilities of Laser Users - employees, students, and visitors who use lasers:
- Follow approved written operating procedures
- Perform work in a safe manner at all times
- Report unsafe acts or conditions to their supervisor
- Properly use required personal protective equipment (PPE), including laser protective eyewear
Training Requirements
- Completion of EHS Laser Fundamentals and Safety Training
- Hands‑on, task‑specific training provided by senior laboratory personnel or an authorized supervisor prior to using a laser
Inspection and Recordkeeping Requirements
- Participation in EHS routine laser audits
- Maintenance of:
- User training records
- Laser‑specific training documentation
- Current SOPs for each laser system
Documents and Forms
Program
- Laser Safety Program
Procedures
- Administrative and Procedural Control Measures for the Four Laser Classes
- Engineering Control Measures for the Four Laser Classes
- Alignment Procedures for Class 3B and Class 4 Lasers
- Guidelines for Working with Laser Cutters
- Laser Eye Protection
- Laser Registration and Implementation Procedures
Forms
- Laser Self‑Inspection Form
- Laser‑Specific Training Documentation Form
- Penn State Laser Registration Form
Templates
- Laser Safety SOP Outline
- Laser Safety SOP Template
- Laser Warning Sign Template
Additional Resources
These are useful links for additional information that you might need during the implementation of the laser safety program:
The Laser Institute of America
Rockwell Laser Industries, Inc.
Thorlabs Laser Safety Products
Safe laser use starts with education. The Laser Safety Program helps protect the University community while enabling the innovative teaching and research that define Penn State. Through required training, clear safety expectations, and ongoing guidance, the program ensures lasers are used responsibly—every time, by every user.
EHS partners with faculty, staff, and students to build confidence and competence when working with laser systems. By emphasizing hazard awareness, proper training, and shared responsibility, the Laser Safety Program supports a strong culture of safety across laboratories, classrooms, and research facilities.
Penn State’s Laser Safety Program empowers researchers to work safely and confidently with Class 3B, Class 4, and advanced Class 1 laser systems.
We provide the expertise, training, and safeguards you need to protect your team, stay compliant, and keep your work moving forward. Supervisors and users partner with EHS to ensure every laser setup is supported with clear procedures, proper protective equipment, and routine audits—so you can focus on advancing your research with confidence.
Administrative and Engineering Controls and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Use required controls: Implement approved engineering and administrative controls to reduce laser hazards before relying on PPE.
- Follow procedures: Complete required training, maintain approved laser‑specific SOPs, and restrict laser use to authorized individuals.
- Wear PPE when required: Use appropriate laser eye protection and other PPE when engineering and administrative controls do not fully eliminate exposure risks.
Learn more about the engineering control measures for the four laser classes.
Setting up a Laser or Laser Lab at Penn State
There can be a lot to consider when setting up a new laser or laser workspace at Penn State. EHS can help to simplify this.
An initial key step is reviewing manufacturer information to identify the class of the laser or lasers to be used – whether Class 1, 2, 3,3B, 3R, 4, or Class 1 with an embedded class 3B or 4, knowing the class of laser is a crucial step in selecting appropriate safety measures and controls, including PPE and training.
Once the laser class information has been established, review the program control measures to identify high-level control requirements for the lab or work space.
For Class 3B and Class 4 lasers, and also for Class 1 with embedded Class 3B or Class 4 lasers, users are encouraged to review Laser Registration and Implementation Procedures This document can direct you to additional helpful resources, such as an SOP template, guidelines on selecting Laser Eye Protection, and links to training. These implementation procedures must be followed for each Class 3B, Class 4, and Class 1 with embedded Class 3B or Class 4 laser or laser lab.
Documents referenced above:
- Engineering Control Measures for the Four Laser Classes
- Laser Registration and Implementation Procedures
- Additional information can be found in the Laser Safety Program
Laser Safety Requirements for Contractors at Penn State Events
Penn State University is committed to providing a safe environment for all events involving lasers, including concerts, performances, ceremonies, athletic events, and special productions. All contractors, vendors, and third‑party production companies using lasers at Penn State events must comply with the University’s Laser Safety Program and applicable federal regulations.
Lasers may not be operated at Penn State events until all required documentation is reviewed and approved by the Penn State Laser Safety Officer (LSO) and an on‑site inspection is completed.
Contractor Responsibilities and Expectations
Advance Notification and Documentation (Required)
The Penn State facility manager or event organizer will request the following information from the laser contractor. Contractors are expected to provide all required materials at least 48 hours prior to the event:
- Company name and primary contact information
- Detailed laser information, including class, output, and intended use
- A planned laser layout showing beam paths and audience exposure zones
- Name and training records for the contractor’s designated Laser Safety Officer (LSO)
- A copy of the most recent FDA/CDRH variance for laser light shows
- A copy of the Laser Light Show Report filed with the FDA/CDRH for the specific show
Failure to provide complete documentation may result in event delays or cancellation.
Additional Requirements for Outdoor Laser Displays
See the section on Laser Light Shows at Penn State for additional requirements regarding outdoor laser displays.
On‑Site Setup and Inspection
- All laser systems must be fully installed and tested before inspection
- The Penn State Laser Safety Officer will conduct an on‑site safety inspection after setup and prior to the performance
- Lasers may not be operated until the LSO confirms that all required safety and control measures are in place
The inspection verifies beam containment, control measures, audience safety, and compliance with Penn State and ANSI laser safety standards.
Operational Safety Expectations During the Event
Contractors are expected to:
- Operate lasers only as approved during the safety review
- Prevent direct or reflected beam exposure to audience members, staff, or performers
- Maintain physical and administrative controls to prevent unauthorized access to laser equipment
- Ensure laser operation is supervised by a trained and designated laser operator at all times
- Immediately cease laser operation if unsafe conditions arise or if directed by Penn State staff
Lasers capable of causing eye or skin injury, fire hazards, or hazardous air contaminants must be controlled in accordance with Penn State’s Laser Safety Program and ANSI standards.
Authority to Suspend Laser Use
Penn State reserves the right to:
- Require operational changes
- Delay laser operation
- Suspend or prohibit laser use
If safety requirements are not met or if conditions differ from what was approved during review and inspection.
Questions and Coordination
All laser safety documentation, approvals, and inspections are coordinated through Penn State Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) and the Laser Safety Officer.
Event organizers and contractors should plan early to ensure adequate time for review, coordination, and inspection.
Laser Safety Requirements for Other Penn State Events
Laser Light Shows at Penn State
EHS can help to ensure your laser light show is safe as well as fun. The facility manager or event organizer at Penn State has the responsibility to request the laser light show vendor to provide to EHS the following documents at least 48 hours prior to the show:
- Name and contact information for the laser show vendor,
- Laser information and planned laser layout for the show,
- Name and training record for the Laser Safety Officer (LSO) for the show,
- A copy of the last variance issued by the CDRH, FDA, and
- A copy of the Laser Light Show Report filed with the CDRH for the show to be performed at the University
If the laser light show or display is outdoors, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) must be notified before any open air laser light shows operate. Notification to the FAA of a proposed open air laser light show should be made in writing at least two weeks and preferably four weeks in advance of the performance. For outdoor laser light shows, an approval letter from FAA should also be submitted to EHS for review.
Laser Tag Events at Penn State
Many of the “lasers” used in laser tag are not actually lasers, but infrared-emitting diodes. When planning a laser tag event, first check with the laser tag provider to determine the kind of equipment that will be used during the event. No additional approval requirements are necessary for infrared diodes used in laser tag. However, if lasers are being used, the facility manager or event organizer at Penn State has the responsibility to request the laser light show vendor to provide additional information to EHS at least 48 hours prior to the show. This information will have to include:
- FDA CDRH accession number for the laser *
- Laser Classification (Class 1, 2, 3a/3R, 3b, 4)
- Laser type
- Laser Wavelength
- Maximum output power
- Output type (continuous wave or pulsed)
- Repetition rate (if output type is pulsed)
*All lasers manufactured in the United States are required to have an accession number assigned by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH). Laser Manufactures are required to submit a product report to the FDA. If the report conforms to 21CFR the FDA will approve the report and assign an accession number. The accession number means that the product is manufactured in accordance with the product report and will be safe for its intended use. This FDA CDRH accession number for the laser must be provided to EHS.
Complete the Laser Registration Form to register Class 3B and Class 4 lasers, document required equipment details, identify the responsible supervisor, and confirm that safety training and operating procedures are in place before use at Penn State.
Laser Safety FAQs
Who is required to follow the Laser Safety Program at Penn State?
The Laser Safety Program applies to university employees, students, and visitors using Class 3b or Class 4 lasers, as well as Class 1 laser systems containing embedded Class 3b or 4 lasers. Laboratory researchers and their associates are most likely to be covered by this program.
What are the key responsibilities of supervisors overseeing laser systems?
Supervisors must ensure lasers are operated and maintained safely, keep EHS informed of changes, develop written procedures, identify and train relevant users, provide appropriate safety equipment, address unsafe conditions, and schedule regular audits with EHS.
What training and inspection requirements are specified by the program?
Users are required to complete EHS Laser Fundamentals and Safety Training and receive hands-on training from experienced personnel before using lasers. Additionally, EHS conducts routine laser audits to ensure compliance.
How should unsafe acts or conditions involving lasers be managed?
Unsafe acts or conditions should be reported to supervisors, and work with lasers must be suspended until these issues are resolved. Supervisors are responsible for following up and ensuring safety before work resumes.
What documentation and recordkeeping are required under the program?
Records of user training, laser-specific training, and updated standard operating procedures (SOPs) must be maintained to comply with the Laser Safety Program requirements.