Laser and IPL use within the beauty industry:
Registering with the local authority (council)

Certain local authorities (e.g. London, Nottinghamshire.) require the purchase of 'Special Treatments Licence' for premises using laser or IPL equipment. The precise 'licence conditions' vary from council to council but the following text provides a guide to the most common requirements.


Training

1. Applications training (how to use the equipment and perform treatments).

2. Safety training (sometimes called 'core of knowledge' or 'laser protection supervisor' training).


Services of a Laser Protection Adviser (LPA)

To assist with risk assessments, help draft written safety procedures (e.g. local rules) and recommend appropriate safety controls.


Written safety procedures

1. Health and Safety policy (if employing 5 or more people)

2. General laser/IPL safety procedures (e.g. 'local rules' or 'method statement')

3. Specific work instructions on treatment procedure (e.g. 'treatment protocol', or 'standard operating procedure (SOP)')


Other controls...

...Designed to minimise exposure to optical radiation and other 'non-beam' hazards. Examples may include:

- Designation of a Controlled Area (e.g. laser room)
- Warning signs at entrances
- Minimise highly reflective surfaces (e.g. mirrors in the room)
- PPE (eyewear and filter masks)
- Client records (consultation, equipment settings etc.)
- Provision of pre/post treatment instruction
- Plume extraction/ventilation
- Service and maintenance