Tech in Surgery Prep / Unit 9 TSC 211 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Laser Safety
The idea
Nearly all surgical lasers are in the highest hazard class, Class Four, because they are designed to alter tissue.
In practice
Learn the hazards and the controls together. First, the hazards: severe eye injury from direct or reflected beams, skin burns from a misdirected beam, fire if the beam strikes drapes or other fuel, and airborne contaminants in the laser plume. Second, the controls: warning signs on every door to the laser area, covered or removed when the laser is not in use. Third, protective eyewear matched to the laser's wavelength, marked with its optical density, for everyone in the room. Fourth, smoke evacuation at the source. Fifth, the laser kept on standby when not in active use, and fired only when the target is in view. Sixth, training for everyone working in the presence of the laser, with use limited to credentialed users.
Where people slip
Reflections are the hidden danger. A shiny instrument can redirect a beam toward someone who is not looking at the field, which is why eyewear is worn by everyone, not only by the surgeon.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Unlocks
Something wrong in this lesson? Flag it · Sources for Tech in Surgery Prep