As dental technology evolves, more practices are integrating lasers into everyday procedures—from periodontal therapy and whitening to soft tissue surgeries. But with great power comes great responsibility. That’s where the Laser Safety Officer (LSO) steps in.
If your dental team uses lasers, you’re not only responsible for clinical outcomes—you’re also responsible for laser safety protocols. OSHA, ANSI, and many state dental boards require that a designated Laser Safety Officer be appointed in every facility using Class IIIb or IV lasers. In many cases, that LSO must also complete formal training.
So, what exactly does an LSO do—and who needs the training? Let’s break it down.
What Is a Laser Safety Officer (LSO)?
An LSO is a trained individual responsible for overseeing laser safety compliance in a healthcare setting. In dental practices, the LSO ensures that laser procedures are performed safely for patients and staff. Their responsibilities include:
- Enforcing safety policies and protocols
- Ensuring proper signage is used when lasers are in operation
- Verifying that laser operators are trained and credentialed
- Conducting laser hazard assessments
- Managing equipment maintenance and calibration
- Keeping up with updates to ANSI Z136.1 and ANSI Z136.3 standards (American National Standards for laser safety)
While many clinicians assume the manufacturer’s manual is enough, the ANSI Z136.3 standard for Safe Use of Lasers in Health Care clearly states that every facilityusing Class IIIb or IV lasers must appoint a qualified LSO.
Do All States Require LSO Training?
Not all states mandate LSO-specific training—but several do. And even where it's not explicitly required, many dental boards strongly recommend formal education to demonstrate due diligence in maintaining a safe clinical environment.
Here are a few key examples:
1. Texas
- Requirement: Dentists and dental hygienists using lasers must complete a laser training course that includes safety, physics, and operation.
- LSO Role: While not named directly in dental board rules, ANSI compliance requires an LSO, and training is considered best practice.
2. California
- Requirement: The California Dental Board mandates that all laser users complete training.
- LSO Role: Dental offices using Class IV lasers should designate an LSO who is trained per ANSI Z136.3 standards.
3. Illinois
- Requirement: Dental hygienists can use lasers for hygiene procedures only if they have completed a board-approved course.
- LSO Role: Offices using therapeutic lasers should assign an LSO the LSO is required to have training in laser safety
4. Nevada
- Requires documented training for laser use. Laser safety is included in scope requirements.
- LSO designation is highly recommended and often required in settings using higher-power lasers.
5. Arizona
- Laser operators must complete education that includes safety and proper usage.
- The LSO should complete ANSI-based training to properly manage laser systems in compliance with national standards.
Why LSO Training Matters
Even if your state doesn’t explicitly require an LSO,the standard of care is shifting toward formal designation and training. Having a trained Laser Safety Officer in your office:
- Protects your practice from liability
- Helps maintain compliance with OSHA and ANSI standards
- Supports a culture of safety
- Ensures your equipment is used correctly and maintained properly
- Boosts team confidence in integrating laser technology
What’s Included in LSO Certification?
At Dedicated Dental Hygiene, our Laser Safety Officer Certification includes:
- 3 hours of self-paced online education
- A review of ANSI standards
- Laser physics and classification
- Clinical safety protocols
- Practice-specific policy recommendations
- A final exam and downloadable certificate of completion
This course is ideal for doctors, hygienists, and administrators in practices using dental lasers. It satisfies most state and manufacturer requirements for formal training and ANSI compliance.
Final Thoughts
If your practice uses lasers, assigning a trained LSO is not just about checking a box—it’s about prioritizing safety, protecting your team, and supporting clinical excellence. Whether you’re in Texas, California, or any other state, investing in LSO training is a smart move for your practice’s future.