Identifying Adverse Events

It is important to identify the cause behind a laser injury or a near-miss where an injury is narrowly avoided. When a mistake or near-miss is made, this allows additional controls to be put in place to prevent a repeat occurrence. Workplaces must have an incident reporting system in place to allow a thorough investigation (Standards Australia, 2022). As described by Barat (2022) Common causes of adverse events whilst using a Laser may include the following: 

Equipment malfunction

Workers have an obligation to report any malfunctioning or faulty equipment. Employers have are required to maintain equipment so it remains safe for operation. 

Protective eyewear not being used

Whilst protective eyewear can be uncomfortable and inconvenient at times, appropriate laser safety eyewear must be kept on. 

Failure to follow standard operating procedures

Instructions are designed to minimise risk and should be followed at all times.

Exposure during alignment

During alignment, protective covers may be removed which drastically increases the risk of harm. Alignment should be performed in accordance to manufacturer instructions and only with appropriate training. 

Inhalation of smoke

Fumes from cutting and various medical procedures can be hazardous. When hazardous fumes are present, controls must be in place such as extraction fans. 

Protective eyewear not appropriate for laser in use

Laser safety eyewear must be designed for the specific wavelength, the output of the laser and the type of laser being used. Laser operators should be familiar with the type of laser they are using and the safety eyewear they are using. Workers should be provided with adequate training by their workplace on how to use PPE and should be provided with eyewear appropriate to every laser they work with. 

Operators unfamiliar with laser equipment

Comprehensive training and supervision are imperative. Workers should not perform any activities unless they have received appropriate training. 

Improper restoration of equipment following service

After servicing, an appropriately trained person should confirm guarding, interlocks, and beam enclosures are restored and tested before use.

Improper methods of handling high voltage

Some laser systems use high-voltage  which introduces electrical hazards particularly during servicing or if damage occurs to the machine. 

Upwardly directed beams

Lasers should never be pointed upwards. An upwardly pointing laser beam may increase the risk of eye injury. Laser beams directed into the sky are a hazard to aircraft, and outdoor laser displays in Western Australia are subject to separate notification and approval requirements.

Intentional exposure of others A common cause of laser incidents is intentional exposure of others. Never intentionally direct a laser at another individual

Fire

High voltage and heat generation introduce fire hazards. This is particularly relevant to Class 4 lasers. Flammable materials, solvents and drapes should be kept clear of the beam path, and appropriate beam stops should be used

References

Barat, K. (2022). Laser safety : practical knowledge and solutions. Bristol [England] (Temple Circus, Temple Way, Bristol BS1 6HG, UK), IOP Publishing.

Safe Work Australia (2025). Model WHS Regulations.

Standards Australia (2022). Safety of laser products, Part 14: A user’s guide, Standards Australia.