medical laser safety officer

Laser Institute of America

The LIA is a professional society for lasers, laser applications and laser safety worldwide.  

The Laser Institute of America is the secretariat to the committee that produces the Z136.3 ANSI Standards as well as publisher of the ANSI series.  

ANSI Z136.3

ANSI oversees standards and conformity assessment activities in the United States which are recognized by OSHA and can become law through "Incorporation by Reference" 

ANSI standards represent the National Consensus Standard for laser safety in medical spas, laser clinics and healthcare facilities.      

OSHA can levy large fines against those who violate or are not in compliance with ANSI standards.  

The Board of Laser Safety 

The Board of Laser Safety is an adjunct of the LIA who develops and administers the only CMLSO exam compiled by

subject matter experts.

Individuals who pass the BLS exam are allowed usage of the trademarked designation of Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer (CMLSO).  

A Medical Laser Safety Officer certified by the BLS demonstrates the highest practicing standards of laser safety in the field of cosmetic lasers and laser industry.    

MAINTENANCE POINTS (CE)

The BLS requires each CMLSO to maintain their certification by obtaining certification maintenance points in laser safety. 

The course offered by the International Academy of Cosmetic Laser Surgery is a pre-requisite to MLSO certification as well as is approved by the BLS for those who are in need to complete maintenance points. 

OSHA General Clause 1910 

Physicians must comply with applicable OSHA regulations.

OSHA requires the medical facility to be safe from recognized laser hazards by implementing a laser safety program and documenting Standards Operating Procedures.  

OSHA State Programs

OSHA approved state programs provide workplace safety and health programs operated by individual states or U.S. territories. 

There are currently twenty-two State Plans covering both private sector and state and local government workers, and seven State Plans covering only state and local government workers. 

State Plans are monitored by OSHA and must be at least as effective as federal OSHA regulations in protecting workers and in preventing work-related injuries, illnesses and deaths.