Occupational exposure in medical proceedings during the manipulation of laser radiation in a central hospital

The word laser is an acronym for "light amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation". The laser light has unique characteristics, such as monochromaticity, coherence and collimation. It can interact with human tissue in different ways and it is used in diagnostic or therapeutic medical applications. However, laser can produce some non desirable effects, such as damage to the eyes or skin burns, which can affect healthcare workers. Laser can also originate a plume related to biological risk. The aim of this work was to characterize the occupational exposure to medical lasers in a central hospital and the existence of measures to control exposure. Twelve different medical settings were visited, mostly (ten) using laser class 4 (the most dangerous class). Only six settings had correct protective glasses according with laser wave-length and seven of them had respiratory protection. In four of these workplaces there were safety signs and only in three places there were the smoke evacuation system. None of them had the designation of a laser safety officer. In conclusion, we alert to the importance of performing risk evaluation and management of laser radiation in hospitals settings.