Introduction
While hundreds of types of lasers exist, only a select number—about a dozen—are commonly used in clinical settings. Healthcare employees may be exposed to lasers during diagnostic, cosmetic, preventive, and therapeutic procedures. Most lasers used in surgical procedures are Class 4, specifically designed to deliver controlled laser radiation to modify biological tissue.
Laser Classifications
Federal regulations require that medical laser systems be classified based on their potential to cause harm to the eyes or skin. This classification must be clearly displayed on the laser system’s label to inform users of the associated hazards.