You can obtain this guidance here: https://www.plasa.org/guidance-for-display-lasers/
A paid from more detail document, part of IEC 60825, can be obtained from the BSI here: https://knowledge.bsigroup.com/products/safety-of-laser-products-guidance-for-laser-displays-and-shows-1
This forms part of legal and best practice compliance. In the UK and Europe this guidance is the only compliance document that is specifically written for the use of display lasers.
This is guidance, it is not law. If you need to break it then a pragmatic management of the risks can be considered acceptable. You are free to take other action, however if you do follow this guide you will normally be doing enough to comply with the law.
This is a document you should definitely read from start to finish!
What this guidance covers
Laser control measures
Practical control measures
E.g. Keep the power as low as you can when setting up (this is a high risk time for laser injury)
Managing laser safety
Roles and responsibilities
Advance planning of laser show
Communication – coordinating with others
Emergencies and contingencies
Show planning & system design
Creative brief
Power of lasers and effects to be used – appropriate for the venue?
When will lasers be used?
How it will be done – specific features of the laser system
Use of colour to bring power down (green is 1/2 the power, red is 1, blue is 3x ish)
Safe system of work
Pragmatic is a key word, if you’re breaking “rules”, are you being pragmatic in your approach to the managing of risk. E.g. breaking the 3m height rule – will the audience reasonably be expected to be seated for the duration, not on shoulders, have you sufficient eyes on, etc. It can be considered reasonable to break the rule in that instance
Installation & alignment
Where are lasers rigged?
Use physical masking to protect audience and performers (e.g. shuttering at the laser aperture)
Signage if required
Nominal hazard zones
Safe distances
Alignment methods
Pre show checks
Visual checks of all the lasers, still in their correct positions (e.g. have you used tape to indicate correct tilt, spike marks for placement).
Checking safety features, e.g. estops, zoning
Sign off record
Operation
Monitoring
Stopping if there’s a problem (assess it, have the balls to say no if something is wrong, you never put people at risk, no matter what).
Post show
Safe shutdown
Post show feedback and report is a useful thing to get into. Great for someone who has to take over a show from you.
