The laser safety officer, or LSO, is the designated person in charge while a laser dentistry procedure is in place. They have a lot of responsibility to ensure that there are safety measures to be followed while a laser is in use. They have to control, closely monitor, and adhere to all safety measures that have been established. The LSO does not have to be the dentist operating the dental diode laser, but can shut down operations if safety measures are not being followed. Here is a checklist for the safety laser officer to follow for maximum safety in a dentist and orthodontist's office.
* Write the Safety Procedures Manual for all staff members to follow
* Establish hazardous areas including Nominal Hazard Zone and Nominal Ocular Hazard Distance
* Training session for all staff members involved with dental diode laser procedures
* Stay up to date with laser dentistry procedures and regulations
* Checks certifications of authorized staff members to use the laser * Does not share operating password to turn on and operate with the dental laser
* Is well educated with all safety components built within the laser
* Monitors use of laser and ensures all procedures are approved by FDA standards
* Provides protective clothing and eyewear for all staff members and patients
* Does not allow unauthorized or unprotected personnel and patients in operating area
* Maintains the laser on a regular basis checking for calibration, beam direction, and strength
* Records and maintains accurate records of all procedures used with the laser
* Reports any damages or injuries caused by operational use of the laser
* Supervises all dental procedures with the dental diode laser
As you can see, the LSO has a lot of responsibility to ensure that all procedures, staff member, and patients are safe when a dental laser is in use. If there is not a safe operating space, the laser can cause a lot of damages. There are safety hazards that can be avoided with the right safety measures in place. Laser injuries are very serious and some can cause irreversible damage.
Lasers can cause eye damage and skin damage. There are other hazards can incur with a laser because the strength of the beam is so powerful. In addition to eye and skin hazards, there are also non-target tissue and fire hazards. The LSO should implement the safety procedures manual to include all hazards, how to avoid them, and what to do in the event there is an injury or accident.
