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•
The laser area should always be kept as small as possible and should be screened off,
making sure that this area cannot be accessed by unauthorized persons. The number of
people present in the laser area should always be kept to a minimum.
•
At least once a year, all persons working in the laser area must be informed about
pertinent safety requirements and measures to be taken, and must be instructed in using
the device. Such training must be recorded, including a list of all participants.
2.3
Explosion and Fire Hazards
Class IV laser systems (DIN EN 60825-1) represent a potential ignition source. When laser
radiation is absorbed, the laser energy is transformed into heat. This increases the reactivity of
the irradiated material. When working with the MCO25plus, the user therefore is required to
observe the following measures in order to prevent laser-induced fires and explosions:
•
Materials that have a high ignition potential (such as flammable liquids of all danger
classes) should never be used either during or prior to the laser treatment.
•
Highly flammable or oxidizing (fire-stimulating) gases – such as oxygen and nitrous oxide –
may be used for endolaryngeal operations only in conjunction with special safety measures
(use of a laser-proof tube) in order to prevent laser-induced tube ignition.
•
Be very careful when using easily flammable materials (such as pads, compresses, etc.) in
the operating area. In specific,
•
never bring the laser beam in direct contact with flammable objects;
•
always use the pilot beam for aiming purposes;
•
moisten potentially flammable materials;
•
switch off the laser beam immediately after use;
•
protect the laser unit against accidental/improper use by switching it from "laser
ready" to "standby" mode; switch off or lock all applicator systems connected to
the laser unit whenever those systems are not being used.
•
In the event of an accidental laser beam release, it must always be guaranteed that neither
the patient nor staff members present in the operating room are exposed to dangers and
that easily flammable materials will not catch fire.
•
The use of combustible anesthetic gases or oxidizing gases, such as nitrous oxide (N
oxygen, should be avoided. When saturated with oxygen, some materials (such as cotton)
may catch fire at the high temperatures generated during the normal use of the laser unit.
The solvents of adhesives and flammable solutions used for cleaning and disinfection
should be given sufficient time for evaporation before using the laser.
Attention should also be given to endogenous gases that could catch fire.
Attention!
Never operate the unit in the vicinity of easily flammable narcotics or highly
volatile mixtures such as alcohol or benzine/petroleum spirit. Never use oxygen
for gastro-intestinal irrigation in endoscopic applications!
10
MCO25plus Operating Instructions
O) or
2
V 4.1
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