ANSI Z136.3-2018 "Safe Use of Lasers in Health Care"

This is the newest edition of the ANSI Z136.3 American National Standard of Laser Safety in Health Care. This version provides updates to laser hazard evaluation, maintenance of laser devices, and administrative, engineering and procedural safety controls. Additional information and updates address plume control, fire and shared airway standards of practice.

Here are some of the highlights of this standard:

• Addition of a new Classification of laser systems - Class 1C laser products
• Reorganized Laser Hazard Evaluation based on a multifaceted risk assessment
• New discussion of the selection and utilization of the most effective PPE
• New descriptions of Governmental requirements of manufacturer’s in the purchase of laser devices
• New review of Window Barrier protection factors
• Update of Laser Signs that are now compliant with 21CFR1040.10 or IEC 60825-1
• Additional information on Fire and Explosion Hazards with emphasis on Shared Airway Procedures
• Updated standards on hazard control of Plume and Airborne Contaminants (PAC) and Laser Generated Airborne Contaminates (LGAC)
• New Administrative and Procedural Controls for a Facility Laser Safety Program
• Updated LSO roles and responsibilities
• Expansion of Third Party Laser Use with a supplemental Intake Laser Form
• Additional Engineering Controls and standards
• Updated Medical Surveillance standards
• Re-emphasis on Laser Education and Training

The New Z136.3-2018 edition states that LSO education should include completion of a formal medical laser safety and LSO course, certification as a MLSO, and previous work experience as a laser operator.

Re-education and training should occur at least every five years for key members of the laser safety programs including users, operators, LSSC/LSS, DLSOs and LSOs. RLI has updated the MLSO course to reflect changes in the new standard.