The use of laser cutters for cutting various materials in the industrial sector is prevalent in Australia and worldwide. This is mainly because of the equipment is extremely versatile and can also provide users with a myriad of other incredible benefits including greater cutting accuracy and faster production speeds.
If you're looking to laser cut materials used for industrial manufacturing operations, ensuring laser safety in the work environment should be a top priority for you. Here's a look at some of the potential dangers associated with operating a laser cutter and what you can do to keep everyone safe.
1. Laser Radiation
Laser cutters produce a laser beam that can cause eye and skin injuries. The injuries are sustained when workers get overexposed to radiation from the beams. Using the right laser safety glasses or other eyewear can help minimise the risk of eye injury. The glasses should have filter lenses designed to match the operating parameters – power, wavelength and optical density – of the laser being used. You can consult an industry professional if you are unsure about what would suit your application.
Likewise, provide face shields, full-length clothes, gloves and other personal protective equipment to protect your personnel from skin injuries.
2. Fire Hazards
Some materials inflame easily, especially when subjected to the intense heat generated by laser beams. This can lead to fire hazards in the work environment.
To prevent potential fire hazards during laser cutting, make sure you know what materials are safe to cut using your laser cutter. Also, make sure you clean your equipment after every use to remove traces of flammable debris. Placing a fire extinguisher on the wall near your laser cutter will help you put out small fires in case of a fire hazard.
3. Laser-Generated Air Contaminants
As powerful laser beams cut materials, the materials can potentially release harmful contaminants into the surrounding air. The types of contaminants produced depend on the kind of material being cut.
Under specific conditions, these contaminants can expose those who inhale them to serious health risks. Filtration, ventilation and/or exhaust systems are essential to reduce or eliminate worker exposures to the contaminants. The decision on which type or types of control to use will depend on what's specified by your equipment manufacturer.
The bottom line is that only trained operators should be allowed to operate laser cutting equipment because they are well-versed with what they need to do to ensure efficient laser cutting while staying out of harm's way.