Laser Safety – AILU workshop

Introduction

Chair: Bethan Smith (MTC)

Laser safety is of paramount importance to ensure that the laser can be a manufacturing tool that is implemented widely and not considered a high-risk technology. Modern PPE, guarding and accessories make laser safety possible in a research or manufacturing environment. 

What should be considered to enable the safe use of lasers? It is not only about the laser beam, which can be stopped using interlocks, guarding and PPE. Other risks are also significant. Laser processes, like conventional processes, generate fume that is hazardous to the operators and any personnel nearby. There are other risks to consider too.

This workshop will set out the latest amendents to the laser safety standards, discuss the latest evolutions of PPE for laser processing and consider how automation is a good alternative to reducing the skill required and the risk to operators when using hand held laser welders.

Who should attend?:
Anyone with a safety role in an organisation where lasers are currently in use (or being considered for use).
Anyone about to buy or currently using a hand held laser system.
Anyone interested in ensuring that the safety in their workplace is up to date

The 2025 AILU AGM will follow this workshop, from 13:30 – 14:30 (see here).

Programme

10:00 – 10:30  Registration

10:30 – 10:40 Welcome
Bethan Smith, MTC

Session 1

10:40 – 11:00 Forthcoming Amendments and new laser safety standards, evolutions of laser PPE and a request for laser user feedback
Neal Croxford, Dovecote Technologies

11:00 – 11:20 Automating existing hand-held laser welding systems to enhance safety
Sinan Bilgin, SS Laser Solutions

11:20 – 11:50 Laser Fume & Filtration
Richard Bloomfield, Donaldson BOFA

11:50 – 12:10 Training & PPE for Laser Safety
Preetesh Mistry, Pro-Lite Technology

12:10 – 12:30 Discussion Session – Q&A – How to promote and deliver strong laser safety in 2025
Dave MacLellan, AILU

12:30 – 13:30  Lunch

13:30 AILU AGM (optional)

Venue

AME
Beresford Avenue
Coventry
CV6 5LZ

Please follow this link for information on security and parking https://www.ailu.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Getting-to-AME.pdf

AILU EVENT T&Cs
See AILU Event Terms and Conditions here.
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By registering for this meeting you agree that you are happy for AILU and Sponsors to contact you after the event