Laser Safety
Lasers are regulated by the Texas Department of State Health Services, Radiation Control, in Texas Administrative Code (TAC), Title 25, §289.301 (the Code). The University of Texas at Austin, to comply with the Code, has established a Laser Safety Program. The purpose of the Program is to provide clear guidance for use of regulated Lasers, and to provide references for those who wish to learn more about safe use of Lasers.
Radiation Safety maintains detailed records of every laser on campus. We are currently updating our database, and to this end we would request you register any new or existing laser by filling out a Laser Permit Application. This application will provide us with all of the details we need to register your new or existing laser.
Because Lasers can cause damage to the eye in a very short period of time, it is critical that all those who work with or around Lasers utilize protective eyewear and follow established laboratory safety guidelines. Download a copy of our Training Manual on Lasers (PDF).
To maintain safety in your labs, please download and print a copy of our Laboratory Laser Survey Form (PDF) and Laboratory Non-Radiation Hazards Survey Form (PDF). It will provide you with a safety checklist for your lab personnel.
Your laser must have present at the laser control panel a Laser Safety Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) — available as a PDF or Word document.
If you wish to read the State regulations in 25 TAC 289.301, please visit the DSHS, Radiation Control Program Regulations
Link to the University's Certificate of Registration for Lasers, Z00117 (PDF).
You may be interested in our Laser Safety Program Plan (PDF). This page will inform you of our current program and will be updated to reflect new office procedures.
Links to vendors and suppliers of laser and safety items.
