Laser Use in Hospitals: Core Safety Standards Every Clinician Should Know

Laser systems are used across Australian hospitals in surgical, dermatological, ophthalmic, and therapeutic settings. While they enhance precision and client outcomes, they introduce controlled hazards that require structured oversight.

Hospital laser safety training supports compliance with Australian standards and reinforces patient and staff safety.

The Role of the Laser Safety Officer

Facilities operating 4 lasers must appoint a trained Laser Safety Officer under AS/NZS 4173: 2018 standards.

The Laser Safety Officer is responsible for:

• Conducting risk assessments
  

• Establishing control measures
  

• Maintaining safety documentation
  

• Overseeing staff training
  

• Managing incident response protocols
  
  

In hospital settings, this role may sit with scrub or scout nurses, clinical educators, biomedical engineers, or senior nursing staff.

Controlled Areas and Hazard Management

Hospitals must implement:

• Designated laser-controlled areas

• Restricted access procedures
  

• Appropriate eyewear
  

• Warning signage
  

• Emergency shutdown protocols
  
  

Each device must be correctly classified, and hazard assessments must be documented and reviewed regularly.

Shared Responsibility Across Clinical Teams

Laser safety is multidisciplinary. It involves:

• Surgeons
  

• Theatre nurses
  

• Anaesthetic staff
  

• Allied health practitioners
  

• Biomedical teams
  
  

Hospital laser safety training ensures all personnel understand their role within the broader safety framework.

Documentation and Governance

Hospitals operate within strict governance structures. Structured training supports:

• Workplace health and safety compliance
  

• Accreditation standards
  

• Insurance requirements

• Audit readiness
  
  

Maintaining current training records demonstrates due diligence.

Ongoing Competency

As new technologies are introduced into procedural environments, staff competency must evolve accordingly. Hospital laser safety training supports risk management while reinforcing a culture of safety.