Outdoor Laser Safety
Laser Safety Officer contact
The purpose of the Outdoor Laser Safety Program is to ensure the safe use of laser systems in outdoor environments by preventing human exposure to laser radiation in excess of applicable maximum permissible exposure limits. This program establishes administrative, engineering and operation controls to protect personnel, the public and aircraft from laser hazards.ÌýÌý
This program applies to students, faculty, and staff at CU Â鶹ӰԺ facilities and any outside personnel or entity working with lasers outdoors on the CU Â鶹ӰԺ campus.Ìý
This program is designed to ensure compliance with applicable federal regulations and recognized safety standards including ANSI Z136.6 – American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers Outdoors, 21 CFR 1040.10 – Federal Laser Product Performance Standard (FLPPS) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Advisory Circular 70-1B for Outdoor Laser Operations.ÌýÌý
Before any outdoor laser operation can be conducted, the External Laser Operator and the CU Host Group shall coordinate with the LSO. This initial step involves sharing event details, including laser system specifications, site diagrams and the scope of the planned display. Early coordination ensures that all parties understand safety requirements, regulatory obligations and responsibilities before proceeding with documentation and operational planning.
The External Laser Operator and CU Host Department shall collaborate to develop SOPs and complete all required regulatory forms (e.g., FDA, FAA, Fire and Life Safety permits). These documents shall then be submitted to the LSO for review. The LSO shall be the party responsible for submitting these forms to the relevant agencies for approval.Ìý
After receiving regulatory approvals, a pre-show hazard assessment shall be conducted. This is typically done during show staging, about a day or two before the event occurs. The CU LSO and other AHJ (e.g., Fire Marshal) shall verify that the laser system is properly installed, and all controls are in place (e.g., termination points are secure, control area is established). This ensures that the physical set up aligns with regulatory approvals.
During the event, the CU LSO and other designated personnel shall continuously monitor the laser beams to ensure they remain within the approved paths and comply with all safety and regulatory requirements. This includes verifying that the laser does not stray into restricted airspace or move from the intended path. The CU LSO and other designated personnel shall also monitor the control area and ensure safety measures are actively maintained throughout the event (e.g., the control area remains secure from unauthorized entry).Ìý