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• Standard Number: 1926.54(j)

June 13, 1994

Mr. David Williams
President
Laser Technology, Inc.
7070 S. Tucson Way
Englewood, Colorado 80112

Dear Mr. Williams:

This is in response to your April 29 letter requesting clarification of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard addressing the use of lasers (29 CFR 1926.54(j)).

The term "direct staring" as used in paragraph 1926.54(j)(1) applies where an employee is required to or is likely to look directly into the beam, towards the source, in order to perform required work. The term "incidental observing" (1926.54(j)(2)) applies to exposure to an employee where looking directly into the laser is not required and is unlikely to occur in the performance of required work.

If we can be of any further assistance, please contact me or Mr. Dale R. Cavanaugh of my staff at (202) 219-8136.

Sincerely,



Roy F. Gurnham, P.E., J.D.
Director
Office of construction and
Maritime Compliance Assistance

Standard Interpretations - Table of Contents Standard Interpretations - Table of Contents