[lm-announce] Laser Registration - you must complete the form if you want to book a microscope

[Samuel Swift]

Dear All,

Following changes to the University's laser registration policy, all users of Class 3R, 3B and 4 lasers will need to register as laser users and undergo training in the safe use of lasers.  Because nearly all of our microscopes have at least one of these lasers, I think it prudent that all microscope users understand the inherent risks of working with lasers.  Even if you do not user a laser-based microscope yourself, you will almost certainly work in a room that does.  Therefore, all Imaging Facility users are now required to register as laser workers.  Points to note:

1)  Today you are registering as a laser worker.  The training will come later.  It is not onerous but it is important and therefore mandatory.
2)  The lasers are embedded in the microscopes and the beams are enclosed.  The risk of injury is low – please do not worry and do come and talk to me if you have any concerns.
3)  You have an obligation to keep yourself and your colleagues safes.  I expect you to be careful and exercise common sense at all times when working in the Imaging Facility and to tell us of    any accidents or near misses.  This applies to all aspects of work in the facility.
4)  Class 3 lasers are relatively low power and at visible wavelengths.  Class 4 lasers (on the Multiphoton Microscopes) are high power and at non-visible wavelengths, hence the risk of injury is considerably higher.  The main risks are to your eyes or burns to your skin.
5)  If you do not register as a laser worker you will not be able to book facility equipment from 1st March.  Please remind your friends and lab mates, I don't want anyone to say they weren't told.

In the first instance, all microscopy users will need to read and sign the attached form and return it to Calum Thomson.  You must do this by Friday the 28th of February.  If you do not return the form you will not be granted permission to book any of the facility microscopes.  Calum also has copies of the form on his desk if you would prefer to pop in and sign one.

I am in discussion with the University Radiation Officer about the extent of further training that may or not may be required for Class 3 laser workers and will be in touch in due course.  I will contact Class 4 laser users separately to discuss registration for the Titanium Sapphire lasers and further training.

If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch.

Best,
Sam




The University of Dundee is a registered Scottish Charity, No: SC015096
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