R&D versus ANSI Z136.1

The ANSI Z136.1 standard “Safe Use of Laser” is the pillar of laser safety within the United States. As a standard, it allows the Laser Safety Officer flexibility and interpretive room. In addition, it is the reference source for US regulatory agencies. Unfortunately, flexibility and interpretive latitude are not always compatible with regulatory oversight. A number of ANSI Z 136. 1 control items are neither commonly practiced nor applicable in the Research & Development (R&D) laboratory. The rationale for this will vary within each laser lab application and organization. The goal of this presentation is to review those items and suggest that some means of recognizing this fact be made within the ANSI Z136.1, possibly a normative appendix. This presentation is not calling for an R&D ANSI Standard.