Sandia National Laboratories is a large multi-program Research and Development laboratory which is operated by a contractor for the U.S. Department of Energy. In the Laboratories, lasers are both the subject of research and the tools that are used in other research, development, and testing activities.
Since 1979, training has been the primary focus of the Laboratories' laser safety program. About 1,100 people have been trained in formal courses during that time period. The formal course, presented on site by a contractor, consists of two full days of instruction. The course contents include the following topics:
Laser technology and safety overview.
Federal and ANSI laser standards summaries.
Biological effects of laser radiation.
Classification of lasers.
Laser hazard analysis.
Review of ANSI Z136.1 control measures.
Laser eye protection.
Recent emphasis on regulatory requirements, conduct of operations, and quality management has revealed a need to change the laser safety training curriculum. A new course for users of low power lasers (Class 2 and 3a) is being developed. a refresher course, a management awareness (self-study) course, and major changes in the current courses are planned.