NY State & NYC Laser Safety Officers (LSO)

Ensuring Safety & Compliance in Laser Operations in the State of New York & New York City

Laser safety is paramount in protecting personnel and the public from potential hazards associated with laser use. In New York State and New York City, Laser Safety Officers (LSOs) play a crucial role in ensuring that all laser light show operations adhere to stringent safety standards and regulations. To operate a laser in the State of New York, you must have the State License and file the State Permits. This typically may also include a laser show that is located in the State of New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, and the Country of Canada where the laser light enters the air space or is terminated on ground over New York State. Our company is about one of three licensed Laser Safety Officers in the United States of America.

This page provides an overview of the responsibilities, certifications, training, regulations, and requirements for LSOs in NY State and NYC.

Role and Responsibilities

What is an FDA Laser Safety Officer?

A Laser Safety Officer (LSO) is a trained professional responsible for overseeing laser light show safety programs within an organization, The key responsibilities of an LSO include:

• Implementing laser safety protocols and procedures.
• Conducting risk assessments and hazard evaluations.
• Ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Providing training and guidance to staff on laser safety practices.
• Monitoring and maintaining laser equipment to ensure safety standards are met.

New York State Laser Operator Certificate of Competence

To operate a high-power Laser over 5 milliwatts in New York State and NYC, individuals must obtain specific certifications, licenses, meet educational requirements, and pass a series of tests. In the 1990’s, we were required to have the State of New York take a high-resolution close-up image photograph of our eye’s. We were required to return periodically for follow-up images of our eyes. This practise is no longer in use as it was used as research to study blind spots and changes in the eyes from frequent laser use.

Permits & Licenses Required & Available from www.LaserLightShow.ORG

• FDA – The equipment must be FDA approved.
• FDA – The operator must carry a FDA Laser Operators License, also called a variance.
• FAA – Must file a permit with the FAA who notifies the DoD.
• NY State – The operator must carry a Class B – High Intensity Mobile Laser Certificate.
  • Have passed the Test.
  • Have met the educational requirements.
• NY State – The equipment must be registered with the State of New York.
• NY State – Must file a permit with the State.
• FDNY – Must have a Pyrotechnics License to operate a Smoke Machine.
• FDNY – Must file a Pyrotechnics Permit with the FDNY to use a smoke machine inside New York City, weather it is indoors or outside. Permit + License. Some venues, such as theaters already hold this permit.
• FDNY – NYC Fire Department Place of Assembly Safety Personnel. Not required, but this may satisfy missing elements at your venue as 1 cert holder is required for every 75 people.
• USA – Outside of NYC and also in New York State and the rest of the USA, the local authorities must also be notified, such as the nearest Police Station, Fire Department, and Government.
• NJ – New Jersey Gaming Enforcement License for Casino Vendors (Not required in NY but some Casinos / Gaming Commissions use this as a referral across the USA.)

Permits needed inside New York City for a Laser Light Show

There are 3 permits needed inside the City of New York:

• FAA
• NY State
• FDNY

Requirements

To begin to hire us for a laser light show, we require drawings of your venue. These can include engineering diagrams or hand-drawn sketches. If you are unable to provide these, you may submit photographs, which we will convert into engineering diagrams.

Required Engineer Diagram & Drawing Views

Please ensure your diagrams, drawings, or photographs include the following views:

• Overhead View – A top-down view of the venue.
• Horizontal or 3D View – A side or three-dimensional perspective.
• Front View – A frontal view of the venue or stage.

Other Industries Benefiting from our Laser Safety Services

Beyond laser light shows, our Expertise & License extends to various industries where laser safety is paramount. The New York State Class B License for high-intensity lasers covers a wide range of industries and applications, besides Laser Light Shows. Our certification ensures that we are qualified to handle and operate high-intensity lasers safely and in compliance with state regulations across various sectors. Here’s a look at some of the fields that require certified Laser Safety Officers:

Here’s a look at some of the fields that require certified Laser Safety Officers:

1. Construction: Utilizing lasers for precision tasks such as leveling, alignment, and surveying in large-scale construction projects, including bridge building and road construction.
2. Manufacturing: Ensuring the safe operation of laser cutting, engraving, and welding equipment in industrial manufacturing settings.
3. Research and Development: Implementing safety protocols for laser use in scientific research, laboratories, and experimental studies to protect researchers and equipment.
4. Entertainment: Managing laser safety in live performances, theatrical productions, and special events to ensure audience and crew safety.
5. Telecommunications: Safeguarding the use of lasers in fiber optics and other communication technologies that rely on laser-based systems.
6. Medical and Healthcare Support: While the direct use of lasers in medical procedures is regulated by the Department of Health, LSOs can assist with ensuring compliance in related safety measures, such as proper signage, operational procedures, and securing laser areas.
7. Industrial Radiography: Using high-intensity lasers for nondestructive testing and inspection of materials to ensure safety and quality in various industries.
8. Leak Testing: Employing lasers to detect leaks in containers and systems, crucial for maintaining safety and integrity in industries such as manufacturing and transportation.
9. Instrument Calibration: Calibrating instruments using high-intensity lasers to maintain accuracy and reliability in various scientific and industrial applications.
10. Agriculture: Utilization of lasers in precision agriculture for tasks such as automated weed control, crop monitoring, and livestock management.
11. Aerospace and Defense: Ensuring safety in the use of lasers for targeting, ranging, and communication systems in aerospace and defense applications.
12. Automotive Industry: Managing the safe use of lasers in vehicle manufacturing processes, including cutting, welding, and quality control.
13. Education and Training: Implementing laser safety protocols in academic institutions and training centers where lasers are used for educational purposes.
14. Radioactive Waste Disposal: Handling and disposing of radioactive materials with the aid of lasers, enhancing safety and efficiency in managing nuclear waste.

Our team is equipped to handle the specific safety needs of these diverse industries, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and standards.

Contact Us

We are here to help with any questions, concerns, or inquiries you may have. Whether you need more information about our laser safety services or want to discuss your specific requirements, feel free to get in touch with us through any of the following methods:

Contact Form

Fill out our contact form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

Phone and Email

• Telephone: (215) 888-8080
• Email: [email protected]