What Is CO2 Laser Safety Training?

Laser safety training affords laser surgery providers with essential knowledge and protocols to minimize risks when operating Class IV medical CO2 laser systems. A comprehensive training course typically includes:

  • ANSI Z136.3 standards for safe use of lasers in healthcare
  • Federal and state regulations and licensing considerations
  • Hazard recognition and laser safety controls
  • Laser Safety Officer (LSO) responsibilities
  • Safe laser operation, documentation, and emergency protocols

Is Laser Safety Training Required?

In most clinical environments, laser safety training is either required by regulation or enforced through institutional policies. Key requirements include:

  • United States: OSHA mandates a safe work environment under the General Duty Clause. ANSI Z136.3 is the recognized standard for laser safety in healthcare.
  • Canada: While Health Canada oversees medical device regulation, laser safety training should align with the CSA Z386-14 standard. Provincial authorities may have additional requirements.
  • Australia: Class 4 laser use is subject to state-level radiation safety laws. Laser users may require specific training or licensing depending on the jurisdiction.

Healthcare professionals should confirm local and institutional requirements to ensure full compliance with applicable standards.

Recommended Laser Safety Training

LIA CO2 Medical Laser Safety Training
  • Regular Price: $95 | ALSC Member Price: $50
  • Online, self-paced training for CO2 laser users in clinical and surgical settings
  • Aligned with ANSI Z136.3 safety standards
LIA CO2 Medical Laser Safety Training
ANSI Z136.3: Safe Use of Lasers in Healthcare
  • Regular Price: $150 | ALSC Member Price: $90
  • Reference standard for laser safety compliance in clinical settings

All courses are provided by the Laser Institute of America (LIA), the original developer of the ANSI laser safety standards and a globally recognized authority in laser safety education.

ANSI Z136.3: Safe Use of Lasers in Healthcare

Laser Surgery Quiz by ALSC

The American Laser Study Club offers a complimentary laser-tissue interaction quiz to help clinicians assess their understanding of key laser surgery concepts. This is a helpful resource for those preparing to complete formal training.

Laser Surgery Quiz by ALSC

ALSC Member Discounts

Members of the American Laser Study Club receive exclusive discounts on LIA laser safety training courses and ANSI resources:

  • $45 off CO2 Medical Laser Safety Training
  • $74 off Physician’s Laser Safety Training
  • $60 off ANSI Z136.3 Standard

To take advantage of these discounts, join the ALSC or log in to your member portal.

Laser Safety Training Resource for Australia

LightScalpel offers a dedicated laser safety training resource tailored for clinicians in Australia. The course is based on the curriculum specified in AS/NZS 4173:2018. This material is password-protected and available by request only.

If you are located in Australia and would like access to this resource, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us and indicate your location and interest in laser safety training. We will provide access details upon request.

Why Laser Safety Training Matters

  • Ensures compliance with OSHA, ANSI, CSA, and state-level regulations
  • Reduces the risk of laser-related injury and legal liability
  • Improves patient and staff safety during laser procedures
  • Supports hospital and facility credentialing requirements
References