Description:
Reporting to Operations Manager, the Laser Safety Officer will be responsible to manage the McGill laser safety program. The incumbent will inspect lasers and non-ionizing radiation installations in various teaching, diagnostic and research facilities of the University. Review requests from researchers and provide information on the safe use of lasers and/or non-ionizing radiation systems, classify the types of lasers, review the required control measures, and select the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Maintain up-to-date inventories of laser and non-ionizing equipment. Provide advice to the Community on commissioning and decommissioning of such facilities. Delivers training sessions in laser safety and in non-ionizing radiation. Liaise between the University and government agencies and with individual University departments.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Participates in the development and implementation of policies and new initiatives that support the strategic direction of the Environmental Health and Safety regarding laser safety matters.
- Uses professional expertise, specialized skills and knowledge to prioritize activities or analyze a wide variety of laser safety requirements and processes related to designated areas.
- Establishes and maintains adequate laser safety policies and procedures.
- Evaluates laser workspaces; establishes Nominal Hazard Zones and Maximum Permissible Exposures.
- Identifies, evaluates and controls non-ionizing radiation hazards (i.e. microwaves, radio waves, electromagnetic fields, ultraviolet and infrared radiation).
- Maintains inventory of all Class 3B and Class 4 lasers.
- Manages the laser module in myLab and generates internal laser permits.
- Assures that prescribed control measures are implemented and maintained; approving substitutes or alternate control measures.
- Approves standard operating procedures (SOP) for alignment procedures and other procedural control measures.
- Recommends or approves protective equipment and assures that it is audited periodically.
- Reviews the wording on area laser safety warning signs and equipment labels.
- Reviews laser installations, facilities and equipment before use, including modifications.
- Provides Laser Safety and non-ionizing radiation training.
- Determines the personnel categories for medical surveillance (i.e. baseline eye testing).
- Maintains records of medical surveillance and training.
- Inspects at least annually all Class 3B and Class 4 lasers.
- Prepares and submits an annual report of activities to the University Laboratory Safety Committee. Develops a response plan for incidents of actual or suspected exposure.
- Approves laser control measures, including SOP for maintenance, service and disposal of laser equipment. Commissions and decommissions laser work areas, and other non-ionized radiation facilities.
- Undertakes specific tasks, special projects, initiatives and campaigns for EHS