Team:Laser/RiskAssessment

Name	Laser Cutter
Type	Activity (e.g. Tool Usage)
Last Reviewed
Next Review

Laser cutting has a number of risks associated with it, and we hope to explain those risks and the necessary precautions during inductions.

Risk	Existing Mitigations	Severity / Likelihood	Assessment	Action Required	Residual Risk
Fire due to unattended operation of the laser cutter.	Leaving the laser cutter unattended during use is mentioned repeatedly during inductions. Only inducted members can power up the laser cutter.	5/2	Users have been known to do this anyway, but it is not a common occurrence.	Clarify rules about unattended tool operation. Put up a sign showing safety reminders for using the laser cutter.	2
Arc Eye due to engraving metals, causing temporary eye damage.	This is will be mentioned as a risk during inductions.	4/3	Users may be unaware that this is a risk.	Put up signage showing safety reminders for using the laser cutter. Consider some kind of film to reduce brightness looking into the laser cutter (although this might not be possible).	3
Fumes or Smoke due to issues with extraction.	Ensure extraction is kept clear to prevent build up of smoke and fumes around the laser cutter.	2/2	This is not a common occurrence and most members would recognise that there is an issue and stop cutting. The extraction is checked periodically by the laser team.	Mention on the previously mentioned signage that users should keep an eye on extraction and abort cutting if there is an issue.	2
Hazardous Fumes from cutting inappropriate materials, such as PVC which will release chlorine gas and could lung damage as well as damage to the laser cutter.	The kind of materials allowed are explained during the induction and encouraged to ask on Discord if they are unsure.	4/2	Some members might not remember which materials are hazardous.	Clarify on the previously mentioned signage that cutting should not continue if large amounts of smoke are leaving the laser cutter.	2
{{{risk_5}}}	{{{mitigation_5}}}	0/0			0
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Please ensure you are familiar with the Nottingham Hackspace Health and Safety Policy prior to undertaking this activity.

If you do have an accident or near-miss, please report it using our Near Miss and Accident reporting form.

Risk Matrix

Severity
	5	5/1	5/2	5/3	5/4	5/5
	4	4/1	4/2	4/3	4/4	4/5
	3	3/1	3/2	3/3	3/4	3/5
	2	2/1	2/2	2/3	2/4	2/5
	1	1/1	1/2	1/3	1/4	1/5
		1	2	3	4	5
	Likelihood