Construction

OSHA Standards

Laser hazards are addressed in specific standards for the construction industry. This section highlights OSHA standards and documents related to the laser hazards in construction.

For additional information on specific state plans or other general standards, see the general industry Standards section.

State Plan Standards

State Plans are OSHA-approved workplace safety and health programs operated by individual states or U.S. territories. Most State Plans cover both private sector and state and local government workers throughout the state, while several cover only state and local government workers. See a complete listing of all State Plans. State Plans are required to have standards and enforcement programs that are at least as effective as OSHA's and may have different or more stringent requirements. Explore specific State Plan safety and health standards and regulations.

For additional information on specific state plans or other general standards, see the general industry Standards section.

Additional Letters of Interpretation

Note: The letters in this list provide additional information that is not necessarily connected to a specific OSHA standard highlighted on this Safety and Health Topics page.

• Clarification of the terms "direct staring" and "incidental observing". (June 13, 1994). Provides clarification of the standard addressing the use of lasers (29 CFR 1926.54(j)).
• Class I Lasers. (July 12, 1993).
• "De Minimis Violation" Status accorded to power lasers used in the construction industry. (October 21, 1992).
• Necessary training for laser equipment operators. (September 21, 1992).
• Degree of hazard associated with low power lasers in construction industry. (September 17, 1992).
• Interpretation on construction standard for lasers. (February 1, 1982).

Hazard Recognition

For information on controls, see the general industry Hazard Recognition section.

Possible Solutions

Many workers are unaware of the potential hazards in their work environment, which makes them more vulnerable to injury. The following references aid in recognizing and controlling laser hazards in construction.

• Eye and Face Protection. OSHA Safety and Health Topics Page.

Additional Resources

Related Safety and Health Topics Pages

• Construction Industry
• Eye and Face Protection
• Non-Ionizing Radiation

Training

• Construction Industry Digest. OSHA Publication 2202, (2015).

Other Resources

• International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)