Dear Matt (and the list),
Lasermet fit non-standard mains sockets such
as this when we provide a laser socket that is switched by an interlock system.
However, this is intended more to try to ensure that the correct socket within
the room is used, rather than to restrict use to that room only. This would
not, in any case, apply to most lasers used in hospitals as the interlock
connector would be used instead of controlling the mains power (but some IPL
and older laser systems used in clinics do not have suitable interlock connectors).
I have also seen non-standard plugs/sockets
used where a single switch is used both to turn on the warning signs and
energise the socket. Again, this is intended more to ensure the correct
socket is used rather than to restrict use to a particular room.
Personally, I would not generally specify
the use of these plugs as an engineering control to ensure the laser can only
be used within the designated room/controlled area unless there was a
particular reason for doing so on a particular site. As most machines
have removable (IEC standard) mains leads which can easily be swapped, this
would not seem particularly robust and would hence seem to add little to the
administrative controls that should be in place anyway.
Regards,
Fred
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From:
British Medical Laser Association [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Williamson Matt
Sent: 03 July 2007 15:46
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [BMLA] Laser safe mains
sockets
Hi
One of the hospitals I am involved with has adapted mains
sockets that only allow mains plugs with a notched earth pin to be used in one
of its theatres.
Can I ask colleagues to let me know how common/ popular this
practice is by responding a Yes or No to this e-mail.
If it is done off list, I shall send a summary to the list
with the results.
This allows the laser only to be used in that environment.
Whilst this is an engineering control to ensure the laser is used within the
controlled area only,
The flexibility of some laser systems and theatre dynamics
makes the movement of systems a clinical need.
Clearly the notched plug can be removed/ or the mains lead
replaced with a standard plug lead
A potential incident has been reported where the flexibility
of a non-notched plug laser was attempted to be used in a non-defined laser
controlled area.
The administrative control caught this issue, but could
easily be surpassed.
Many thanks
Matt
Matt Williamson
Laser Protection
Medical Physics & Engineering
Tel 01924 212900
mob 07768 987956
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