What is an example of protective engineering control for lasers?

Protective engineering controls are designed to minimize the risk of exposure to laser beams and enhance overall safety in environments where lasers are used. One of the primary examples is the implementation of protective housings to limit beam access. These housings are physical barriers that encase the laser source. They ensure that the beam cannot be accessed or misdirected by unintended personnel or objects, significantly reducing the risk of accidental exposure to hazardous laser radiation.

This type of control is fundamentally important because it addresses the potential hazards at their source, effectively preventing incidents from occurring rather than relying solely on administrative controls or procedures. Educational training programs, for instance, are critical for informing personnel about safety practices, but they do not physically prevent access to the beam. Similarly, standard operating procedures and controlled area access protocols are vital components of a safety program but serve primarily to guide behavior and access rather than physically protect against beam exposure.