Ionizing radiation associated with high power laser systems can pose a significant safety and regulatory concern. The existing guidance found in the ANSI Z136 series of Standards, while fundamentally sound, provides little practical information on the recognition, evaluation, or control of such radiation hazards. This presentation reviews ANSI Z136.1–2000 guidance and outlines the general issues surrounding laser-related ionizing radiation production. In particular, the ionizing radiation concerns associated with the growing number of free electron lasers are outlined. The associated ionizing radiation control measures are discussed. Finally, this presentation offers suggestions for additional guidance in the ANSI Z136.1 Standard and invites input from the laser community.

Topics
Free electron lasers
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2003
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