Electrical hazards remain the leading cause of laser-related fatalities. Even as newer laser designs become more efficient and use less electrical power, electrical hazards usually present the most deadly aspect of any laser system. At the same time, economic realities often motivate users to continue using older laser equipment well past its intended service life, resulting in the operation of lasers with degraded or missing electrical safety features, no documentation, and no manufacturer service since many former laser fabricators have gone out of business. Nonetheless, laser users and laser safety professionals alike generally possess only a very basic understanding of electrical safety principles. This presentation is intended to impart some immediately-applicable key insights to laser safety professionals, allowing them to recognize, identify, and recommend control measures for fundamental electrical safety issues as they pertain to the laser use environment.

Topics
Lasers
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