Safety training for the lab
Like any other piece of equipment, a laser cutter needs safety training to avoid damage to the equipment, people, and the environment. Before operating any laser cutter, someone must observe the safety precautions to operate it safely. Below are some of the considerations before and after working on the laser.
- Knowledge of the machine Before operating the machine it is essential to have knowledge of the machine itself and to operate it.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Safe Operation Procedures
- Post-Operation Safety
- Emergency Procedures
Potential Risks:
- Burns & Fire Hazards: Since laser is using highly intense laser beams, can ignite materials or cause burns which may lead to a fire.
- Electrical Hazards: High-voltage components can cause electric shocks, for instance, a laser cutter uses high voltage to produce the laser through a laser tube, contaminating the components while in use may cause shock.
- Eye Injuries: Exposure to laser beams can cause serious eye damage or burn.
- Toxic smoke: When cutting materials in the laser they produce smoke which may also be harmful to the people working on the laser or around.
- Mechanical Hazards: Avoid touching moving parts while the laser is in operation. This may cause harm to humans.
- Laser Safety Glasses: It is recommended to wear laser-rated goggles to avoid.
- Laser Safety Glasses: It is recommended to wear laser-rated goggles to avoid.
- Heat-Resistant Gloves:To work on hot materials require gloves that may resist heat.
- Wear Masks or Respirators:Working on a laser that produces smoke requires a mask to avoid inhaling the smoke.
- Never leave the laser cutter unattended while in use.
- Keep the lid closed to prevent laser exposure and smoke release.
- Set appropriate power & speed settings to avoid excessive burning.
- Monitor for fire hazards and have a fire extinguisher nearby.
- Allow materials to cool before handling.
- Remove cut materials only when safe to do so.
- Clean up dust to prevent fire risks.
- Shut down the laser cutter properly.
- Log any maintenance or operational issues.
- Fire: Use a CO2 fire extinguisher, not water.
- Eye Exposure: Seek immediate medical attention.
- Toxic smoke: Evacuate the area and improve ventilation.