“Safe Use of Lasers” standard (recognized by OSHA) defines a Laser Safety Officer (LSO) as an individual designated by the employer with the authority and responsibility to effect the knowledgeable evaluation and control of laser hazards, and to monitor and enforce the control of such hazards.

The LSO may be designated from among personnel such as the radiation safety officer,

In general, operation and maintenance of a Class 1, Class 1M, Class 2, Class 2M or Class 3R laser and laser system do not require the designation of an LSO. However, if service is performed on a laser system having an embedded Class 3B, or Class 4 laser or laser system a LSO is usually designated.