Assessment of Laser Safety Practices in Industrial and Research Facilities in Lagos State

Industrial laser applications have expanded rapidly across manufacturing, telecommunications, and medical sectors in Lagos State, South West Nigeria, creating new occupational exposure risks that require systematic safety management oversight. This study assesses laser safety practices at twelve facilities including printing companies, fiber optic cable installers, dermatology clinics, and university research laboratories in Lagos State. A structured audit instrument based on the ANSI Z136.1 American National Standard for the Safe Use of Lasers and the International Electrotechnical Commission IEC 60825-1 safety standard was applied during facility visits. Assessment criteria include laser hazard classification labeling, appointment of laser safety officers, provision of appropriate optical density eyewear, engineering controls including interlocks and beam enclosures, administrative controls, and emergency procedures. Observations were supplemented by interviews with 38 laser operators. Results indicate critical non-compliance in eyewear adequacy at four facilities where workers used eyewear rated for incorrect wavelengths relative to operational lasers. Laser safety officer appointments were absent in seven of twelve facilities. No facility had conducted a documented nominal hazard zone calculation for high-power Class 3B or Class 4 lasers. The study quantifies potential ocular exposure levels at identified non-compliant workstations and estimates excess retinal injury risk using ANSI MPE calculations. A prioritized compliance roadmap and a template laser safety management plan suitable for Lagos State industrial facilities are developed as practical outputs. Keywords: laser safety, occupational exposure, Lagos State, ANSI standard, industrial lasers