N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. tit. 12 § 50.18

Current through Register Vol. 46, No. 45, November 2, 2024

Section 50.18 - Associated hazards

In addition to the protection against laser radiation, protection shall also be provided against any associated hazards which may be present during the operation of any laser. Such associated hazards include but are not limited to the following:

(a) Air contaminants. Vaporized target materials and toxic gases, vapors and fumes which may be associated with any laser may be present in a laser radiation area. Such dangerous air contaminants shall be removed or controlled in accordance with the provisions of Industrial Code Part (Rule No.) 12 relating to "Control of Air Contaminants" and Industrial Code Part (Rule No.) 18 relating to "Exhaust Systems". Adequate ventilation shall be maintained in each laser installation.

(b) Ultra-violet radiation. Ultra-violet radiation levels in excess of 0.5 microwatt/cm2 for seven hours or 0.1 microwatt/cm2 for continuous exposure shall be avoided. Because quartz transmits ultra-violet radiation efficiently, particular care shall be taken to protect individuals from such radiation when quartz tubes are used in the laser system.

(c) Electrical hazards. Any laser and its associated electrical system may present electrical hazards. Every laser, including all associated electrical equipment, shall be so designed, constructed, installed and maintained as to minimize the possibility of electrical hazards.

(d) Cryogenic coolants. The storage, handling and use of cryogenic coolants associated with lasers shall be such so as to minimize any hazards which such coolants may present.

(e) Fire hazards. Every laser and every laser installation shall be designed, constructed, installed, operated and maintained so as to eliminate or reduce any fire hazard. In addition, every laser radiation area shall be maintained clear of any unnecessary materials in order to minimize any fire hazard.

(f) Explosion hazards. Lasers and associated equipment may present explosion hazards. Such equipment shall be protected with explosion shields to prevent injury to individuals from such hazards.

(g) Ionizing radiation. A laser system may produce ionizing radiation in which case such system shall be in compliance with the provisions of Industrial Code Part (Rule No.) 38 relating to "Ionizing Radiation Protection" in respect to protection against ionizing radiation.

N.Y. Comp. Codes R. & Regs. Tit. 12 § 50.18