Safe Use of Lasers in the Workplace
OPEN ENTRY—GENERIC CERTIFICATION FOR EVIDENCE OF TRAINING IN LASER SAFETY FOR OPERATORS
Did you know that Class 3B and Class 4 lasers are recognised workplace hazards under New Zealand Law? Operators of lasers must understand all potential hazards and risks associated with the use of lasers in their role; this is the responsibility of the PCBU.
This online self-guided course is thorough and covers a broad range of topics, helping operators to gain a solid understanding of how to evaluate potential hazards and risks when operating any kind of laser and to operate safely within a laser-controlled environment. We focus strongly on laser cleaners, laser welding devices, embedded lasers, and lasers for arborists, manufacturing or engineering applications. The information is generic and can be applied to any industrial sector laser workplace.
Referencing AS/NZS International and National Laser Safety Standards, the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015, and HSWA Regulations 2016, this programme teaches you the fundamental principles of basic laser science, laser safety, hazard awareness, and best practice controls.
Whether you're operating Class 3B, Class 4 lasers or supporting those who do, you’ll learn how to reduce risk, protect yourself and others, and contribute to a safer, more compliant workplace.
Image courtesy of WeldIt
Programme Overview
This theory-based training programme provides the essential knowledge required for safe work practices in laser environments. It supports HR in meeting workplace health and safety obligations, while equipping employees with laser hazard awareness and risk management skills.
The programme covers:
✔ How laser light is generated and how it behaves
✔ The three core components of a laser system
✔ Laser wavelengths, mediums, and classification systems
✔ Beam and non-beam hazards commonly encountered in the workplace
✔ The effects of laser exposure on the eyes and body
✔ Laser hazard control measures to support safe, compliant operations
✔ Interpret laser safety markings & select appropriate protective eyewear
Learner Outcomes
✔ Upon successful completion of this programme, HR departments can be confident that employees will be able to:
✔ Demonstrate an understanding of how laser light is generated and its unique properties
✔ Explain laser wavelengths, how they are measured, and their practical applications
✔ Identify different laser mediums and describe how they operate
✔ Recognise both beam and non-beam hazards and understand how they occur in the workplace
✔ Identify the parts of the eye most at risk from laser exposure
✔ Understand laser classification systems and the associated risk levels
✔ Assess what makes a laser hazardous and how those risks are controlled
✔ Apply appropriate hazard control measures to protect operators and nearby staff
✔ Interpret safety markings on laser protective eyewear and select suitable PPE
This course is the pre-requisite before training as a Laser Safety Officer (LSO).
Frequently Asked Questions
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A Laser briefing is a safety chat (likened to a toolbox talk) - you will be made mire aware of what you need to be aware of.
Basic laser safety covers the bear minimum that operators should know, this is ideal if they are already trained in laser safety and require a basic certificate. (our ecomonical option)
This one is ‘Safe use of laser certification’ is full theory teachings and covers off the minimum ideal level of training and competency in laser safety and safe practices for those already using, or about to learn how to use a laser device. This forms the pre-requisite to go on to train as a Laser Safety Officier. (LSO)
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This course is a solid first step in understanding laser safety within industrial and commercial settings. Operators of lasers must understand the hazards and risks associated with laser use in the industrial sector—especially as lasers are recognised workplace hazards under New Zealand law.
If references AS/NZS International and National Laser Safety Standards, the Health & Safety at Work Act 2015, and HSWA Regulations 2016, this programme teaches you the fundamental principles of laser safety, hazard awareness, and best practice controls. Whether you're operating Class 3B or Class 4 lasers or supporting those who do, you’ll learn how to reduce risk, protect yourself and others, and contribute to a safer, more compliant workplace.
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No, this alone, is only theory-based training and is designed to help workers meet their legal responsibilities and know what it takes to operate safely within a laser-controlled environment.
Full operator training needs to be provided by the supplier of your laser, or another suitably skilled and trained person.
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We can assist you with any questions on worker education, becoming laser compliant for your business, or managing Class 3B or Class 4 laser safety, laser controls, hazards, or setting up policies.
Book a complimentary 15min chat with our Laser Safety Officer.
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Great! This course is the pre-requisite for our Laser Safety Officer course.
Our online Laser Safety Officer (LSO) Certification introduces key laser safety concepts, professional guidelines, and accurate terminology. Learners will interpret technical specs, prevent and manage laser hazards, and assess ocular and skin risks from high-powered lasers using laser science and physiology knowledge.
You can pre-purchase both courses as a bundle at time of enrolment.
Course Details: Study, Duration, Cost & Certification
Course code: LST #03
Cost: $320.00 + GST per person
Includes: Self-paced video lessons, interactive learning materials, a basic downloadable handout notes, support from our team, and a short assessment.
Study: Flexible online learning, 24/7 access using our e-learning Portal.
Duration: Complete over a 4-week period, or faster if it suits your schedule.
Certification: A electronic certificate is issued and emailed upon completion of the course. This certificate is suitable for presenting to your employer, a WorkSafe NZ or Workplace Health & Safety Inspector, or as documented evidence of professional development in laser safety for your CV.
This course is the pre-requisite for the Laser Safety Officer Certificate, if you are looking to become the Laser Safety Officer in your workplace there is a bundle enrolment option during the multiple or manual invoice enrolment below.
Enrol instantly and start your learning today. (Please note: price on self-enrolment page includes GST.)
If enrolling two or more trainees / bundle enrolment and paying now, please select this option. (Please note: allow to 3 working days to process.)
If your company requires an invoice for a purchase order (PO), and/or are enrolling multiple trainees and course types.
5 star ratings we have received
“This was a very informative course; the content was very extensive, and I was pleased with the amount of information it provided. The small test quizzes were a great addition, as well as the reference download documents. I will certainly be continuing to upskill myself with the comprehensive material provided.”
“I’ve been watching laser cleaning and welding technology for a while now and always found it interesting. This programme has given me the technical knowledge and safety info to go further with getting my own machine and starting a business with it locally now.”
“I found this course very helpful in an understanding of what a Laser is and its dangers. I would encourage anyone that is getting involved with the use of a laser to do this course. I enjoyed the physics of what makes a Laser work in this course. I got a new understanding of Dangers that could happen, and a knowledge of how to avoid them.”