| Statistical Data for RLI Incident Database |
|
| |
| Most Common Lasers Producing Laser Related Incidents |
Occupations of Persons Involved in Incidents |
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|
Laser Type
|
|
Percentage
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|
Nd:YAG
|
|
29.7
|
|
Argon
|
|
20.5
|
|
CO2
|
|
12.8
|
|
Dye
|
|
9.9
|
|
HeNe
|
|
7.0
|
|
Ruby
|
|
6.2
|
|
Unspecific
|
|
5.5
|
|
Do. YAG/Ruby
|
|
3.7
|
|
Other (HeCd,Cu..)
|
|
3.7
|
|
Diode
|
|
1.1
|
|
|
|
Occupation
|
|
Percentage
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|
Technicians
|
|
21.3
|
|
Scientists
|
|
17.6
|
|
Patients
|
|
12.9
|
|
Plant Workers
|
|
10.7
|
|
Doctor/Nurse
|
|
9.2
|
|
Students
|
|
8.4
|
|
Spectators
|
|
4.8
|
|
Laser Show Operators
|
|
4.0
|
|
Pilot/Military
|
|
3.3
|
|
Equipment
|
|
3.3
|
|
Field Service
|
|
2.6
|
|
Office Staff
|
|
1.8
|
|
|
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The overall analysis reveals that laser accidents generally fall into one or more of the
following major categories:
- Unanticipated eye exposure during alignment.
- Available eye protection is not often used.
- Equipment malfunction causes many unwanted exposures.
- Improper methods of handling high voltage lead to severe shock and even death.
- Protection for non-beam hazards is often lacking.
- Improper restoration of equipment following service frequently causes undesired hazards.
- Incorrect eyewear selection and/or eyewear failure are frequent causes of unwanted exposure.
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