The upcoming Webinar Wednesday Tools of the Trade presentation “Laser Safe: The Biomed’s Path to LSO Certification” will highlight the importance of training and certifying biomedical engineers to serve as Medical Laser Safety Officers (MLSO) in a healthcare facility. It is eligible for 1 CE credit from the ACI.
Presenters Vangie Dennis, MSN, RN, CNOR, CMLSO, FAORN, FAAN, Perioperative Consultants LLC and Patti Owens, MHA, BSN, RN, CMLSO, CNOR, AestheticMed Consulting International LLC will share their expert insights with attendees.
Biomedical engineers should be Laser Safety Officers (LSOs) because their technical expertise with medical devices, understanding of safety protocols, and familiarity with equipment maintenance and calibration make them ideal for managing complex laser systems and ensuring patient, staff, and public safety in healthcare environments. Their technical background directly aligns with the need for precise risk assessment, implementation of control measures, and adherence to strict ANSI standards.
Over 50% of laser-based hospitals and outpatient surgical centers are considered deficient because they lack a LSO, which puts patients and staff at risk. Without proper credentialing, classified laser systems, updated standard operating procedures, or appropriate protective eyewear, serious injuries can happen. Incidents can quickly lead to costly penalties, regulatory actions, and litigation. Ensuring compliance with national regulations, state laws, laser standards, and practice guidelines is essential for fostering a culture of safety.
The webinar will outline the duties of the LSO, a specially trained professional responsible for ensuring the safe use of lasers in medical settings such as hospitals, surgical centers, vision clinics, or dermatology offices. This webinar will review the LSO role as defined and guided by ANSI Z136.3, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard for the Safe Use of Lasers in Healthcare. In addition, the webinar will discuss the benefits of having biomedical engineers assume this regulatory role within the facility-based laser program.
Free registration is open now at WebinarWednesday.live.
Also, be sure to check out upcoming Medical Laser Safety Officer (MLSO) Excellence virtual training sessions designed to prepare healthcare professionals to become a certified laser safety officer. The first virtual training session begins on January 24. MLSOs can come from a variety of backgrounds. This training is designed for healthcare professionals looking to enhance their laser safety knowledge and improve the quality and safety of patient care at their facility. Professionals who should consider obtaining MLSO certification include laser safety officers, biomedical/clinical engineers, radiation safety officers, surgical technologists, dental assistants, aesthetic personnel and veterinary assistants.
Find out more and register today at medicallasersafety.com/
