59MDWI48-106 — Medical Laser Safety Program

59MDWI48-106 governs the Medical Laser Safety Program and its responsibilities, control measures, and laser incident procedures.

Search 59MDWI48-106

  • Publication number: 59MDWI48-106
  • Title: MEDICAL LASER SAFETY PROGRAM
  • Date: 2020-06-08

View 59MDWI48-106 on armypubs.army.mil


It assigns duties to wing, safety, engineering, medical laser, and service supervisors and addresses laser classifications and hazard controls. It requires safety assessments, equipment inventories, incident notifications, medical evaluations, investigations, and reporting.

Applies to: This instruction applies to all assigned, attached, or detailed Active Duty or Reserve members, federal civilians, and other personnel assigned temporary or permanent duties within 59 MDW facilities.

Topics covered

  • Medical Laser Safety Program
  • Laser hazard controls
  • Laser classifications
  • Medical laser inventories
  • Safety assessments
  • Laser incident reporting

Questions and answers

What is required after an actual or suspected laser radiation overexposure?

Following any actual or suspected overexposure to laser radiation, the pertinent examinations as determined by a qualified provider shall be performed IAW AFI 48-139, paragraph 3.6. (paragraph 48-139)

When must a malfunctioning laser device be removed from patient use?

Broken and/or malfunctioning devices will be tagged and removed from patient use immediately. (paragraph 48-139)

How quickly must laser accidents or incidents be reported to the Tri-Service Laser Injury Registry?

Within 3 duty days, the ILSO must report accidents or incidents to the Tri-Service Laser Injury Registry. (paragraph 48-139)

How long does the ILSO have to complete a laser incident investigation?

Within 30 workdays, the ILSO must complete an investigation with a separate final report. (paragraph 48-139)

What action can the Medical Laser Safety Officer take when laser hazard controls are inadequate?

Suspends, restricts, or terminates the operation of a laser system if deemed that laser hazard controls are inadequate. (paragraph 48-139)

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