Regulation 3 of the Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations 2010 Control of Artificial Optical Radiation at Work Regulations places a duty on employers to carry out a risk assessment for any work with optical radiation sources (including lasers) that present a risk of adverse effects on the eyes or skin of employees.

The requirements of this regulation are much more specific than the general requirements for risk assessment under regulation 3 of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

In particular, there is a requirement to carry out an exposure assessment as part of the risk assessment. In addition, the assessment must include consideration of the following matters:

• the level, wavelength and duration of exposure
• the exposure limit values
• the effects of exposure on employees or groups of employees whose health is at particular risk from exposure
• any possible effects on the health and safety of employee resulting from interaction between artificial optical radiation and photosensitising chemical substances
• any indirect effects of exposure on the health and safety of employees such as temporary blinding, explosion or fire
• the availability of alternative equipment designed to reduce levels of exposure
• appropriate information obtained from health surveillance, including where possible published information
• multiple sources of exposure
• any class 3B or 4 laser that is classified in accordance with the relevant IEC standard that is in use by the employer and any artificial optical radiation source that is capable of presenting the same level of hazard
• information provided by manufacturers of artificial optical radiation sources and associated work equipment in accordance with the relevant European Union Directives.

The risk assessment must be reviewed regularly if:

• there is reason to suspect that it is no longer valid
• there has been a significant change in the work to which the assessment relates

The employer must record:

• the significant findings of the risk assessment
• the measures that have been taken and which the employer intends to take to:
• eliminate or reduce risks
• provide information and training.