Laser protection and appropriate precautions play an important role in specialised welding companies where hand-held laser devices are used.

According to the Ordinance on the Protection of Employees from Hazards Caused by Artificial Optical Radiation (Occupational Health and Safety Ordinance on Artificial Optical Radiation - OStrV), employers are obliged to appoint a laser safety officer with specialist knowledge in writing when they commence operations if they do not have the necessary specialist knowledge themselves.

The task is therefore clear: ensure "safety first" for all employees!

Laser safety officers must therefore have in-depth expertise in order to be able to assess the dangers of laser radiation and to ensure that legal regulations are complied with.

The relevant specialist knowledge must be acquired and demonstrated by successful participation in a training course (with final examination) and kept up to date through regular further training (the TROS Laser Radiation specifies this as at least every 5 years) (OStrV § 5 Paragraph 2).

The core tasks include the regular inspection of the protective measures taken in the company, which also includes the provision and maintenance of protective equipment for the specialised welding personnel. Laser safety officers also impart the necessary knowledge for the safe handling of laser equipment.

The work of laser safety officers therefore makes a significant contribution to preventing accidents and increasing productivity. Ultimately, as "guardians of eyes and health", they are at the service of every person who comes or may come into contact with laser radiation during operations.