MIL-HDBK-828C 02.23.17.pdf

02/23/17 7:57 AM, MIL-HDBK-828C 02.23.17

NOTE: This draft, dated 23 February 2017, prepared by Marine Corps Systems Command, has not been approved and is subject to modification. DO NOT USE PRIOR TO APPROVAL. (Project SAFT-2014-006)

AMSC N/A AREA SAFT

NOT MEASUREMENT

SENSITIVE

MIL-HDBK-828C

DRAFT

SUPERSEDING

MIL-HDBK-828B

w/CHANGE 1 5 May 2011

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

HANDBOOK

RANGE LASER SAFETY

This handbook is for guidance only.

Do not cite this document as a requirement.

MIL-HDBK-828C

DRAFT DATED 23 February 2017 ii

FOREWORD

1. This handbook is approved for use by all Departments and Agencies of the Department of Defense.

2. This handbook provides uniform guidance for the safe use of military lasers and laser systems on

Department of Defense (DoD) ranges. Each military service has previously established normal procedures for approving laser ranges and has the responsibility to organize, train, and equip their forces. Services will establish a range laser safety program as part of their overall range safety program. This guidance is intended to supplement these procedures and training requirements. It does not replace those procedures nor release individuals from compliance with the requirements of their particular service. The authority for this handbook is the DoD Laser

System Safety Working Group (LSSWG) established by DoDI 6055.15, DoD Laser Protection Program. Guidance for laser systems not addressed here should be obtained from the LSSWG.

3. The aim of this DoD handbook is to establish range safety for the evaluation and control of lasers under military control to reduce to a minimum the hazards to personnel, property, and the environment.

4. The installation commander is responsible for laser range operations while day-to-day operations are managed through the Installation Laser Range Authority.

5. This handbook applies to laser systems with optical radiation emission in the wavelength range of

100 nanometers to 1 millimeter, pulsed and continuous wave systems.

6. This handbook does not apply to medical or laboratory uses, where additional professional review may be needed to establish health and safety controls; other outdoor use is described in ANSI Z136.6, Safe Use of Lasers

Outdoors.

7. This handbook applies to all hazard categories or hazard classifications defined by ANSI Z136.1, American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers, and IEC 60825-1.2-2001, Radiation Safety of Laser Products.

8. The intent is for this document to provide sufficient guidance for laser system use on a laser range.

9. Comments, suggestions, or questions on this document should be addressed to Marine Corps Systems

Command, 2000 Lester Street, Quantico, VA 22134 ATTN: SIAT-SE-STDS or emailed to

USMC_STDZ@usmc.mil. Since contact information can change, you may want to verify the currency of this address information using the ASSIST Online database at https://assist.dla.mil.

mailto:USMC_STDZ@usmc.mil https://assist.dla.mil/ iii

CONTENTS

PARAGRAPH PAGE

1. SCOPE

1.1 Scope

1.2 Application

2. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

2.1 General

2.2 Government documents

2.2.1 Specifications, standards, and handbooks

2.3 Non-Government publications

3. DEFINITIONS

3.1 Administrative controls

3.2 Atmospheric attenuation

3.3 Attenuation

3.4 Laser beam divergence

3.5 Buffer angle

3.6 Buffer zone

3.7 Controlled area

3.8 Danger zone

3.9 Diffuse reflection

3.10 Engineering controls

3.11 Exclusion zone

3.12 Flash blindness

3.13 Fratricide

3.14 Installation laser range authority

3.15 Institutional laser range authority

3.16 Laser

3.17 Laser footprint

3.18 Laser-guided weapon

3.19 Laser range

3.20 Laser range certification

3.21 Laser spot size

3.22 Laser spot tracker

3.23 Laser surface danger zone (LSDZ)

3.24 Laser target designator

3.25 Laser training area (LTA)

3.26 Maximum permissible exposure (MPE)

3.27 Milliradian (mrad)

3.28 Night vision goggles/devices

3.29 Nominal hazard zone (NHZ)

3.30 Nominal ocular hazard distance (NOHD)

3.31 Ocular interruption (OI) devices

3.32 Operator-controlled laser

3.33 Optical density

3.34 Optically aided viewing

3.35 Personal protective equipment (PPE)

3.36 Scatter

3.37 Seeker

3.38 Specular reflection

3.39 Spillover

3.40 Standard operating procedure (SOP)

3.41 Surface danger zone (SDZ)

3.42 Unit laser range authority

iv

PARAGRAPH PAGE

3.43 Weapon danger zone (WDZ)

4. GENERAL LASER INFORMATION

4.1 Laser

4.2 Laser system

4.2.1 Laser classification

4.2.1.1 Class 1

4.2.1.2 Class 1M

4.2.1.3 Class 2

4.2.1.4 Class 2M

4.2.1.5 Class 3

4.2.1.5.1 Class 3R

4.2.1.5.2 Class 3B

4.2.1.6 Class 4

4.3 Laser range

4.4 Laser system applications

4.4.1 Laser target ranging and designation

4.4.2 Laser spot tracker

4.4.3 Laser-guided weapon

4.4.4 Laser marking

4.4.5 Ocular interruption (OI) devices

4.5 Laser operations

4.5.1 Force-on-force laser operations

4.6 Laser beam reflection

4.6.1 Specular reflection (mirror-like surface)

4.6.2 Diffuse reflection

4.7 Hazards associated with range laser operations

4.7.1 Eye damage

4.7.2 Skin damage

4.7.3 Flash blindness

4.7.4 Dazzle

4.7.5 Disability glare

4.7.6 Startle

4.7.7 Fratricide

5. LASER TARGET AND LASER TARGET AREA CONSIDERATIONS

5.1 Target types

5.2 Target material and diffuse reflectivity

5.2.1 Specular reflection

5.2.1.1 Flat specular surfaces

5.3 Target size

5.3.1 Laser spot size

5.3.2 Laser beam divergence

5.3.3 Spillover

5.4 Target placement

5.5 Target maintenance

5.5.1 Target condition

5.5.2 Target area condition

6. GENERAL RANGE LASER SAFETY

6.1. Fundamentals

6.2 Laser systems

6.3 Unprotected personnel

6.4 Protected personnel

6.5 Aided viewing

6.6 Night vision devices (NVD)

v

PARAGRAPH PAGE

6.7 Laser accident/incident reporting

7. AIRBORNE LASER OPERATIONS

7.1 Considerations for laser operations

7.1.1 Line of sight

7.1.2 Atmospheric attenuation

7.1.2.1 Factors affecting atmospheric attenuation

7.1.2.2 How atmospheric attenuation affects laser delivery

7.1.3 Laser operations planning

7.2 Laser target designator/seeker operations

7.2.1 Seeker

7.2.2 Laser target designator

7.2.3 Laser designation operations planning

7.2.3.1 Laser code

7.2.3.2 Line of sight

7.2.3.3 Field of view

7.2.3.4 Atmospheric attenuation

7.2.3.5 Wind effects on laser designator position

7.2.4 Laser designation and weapons delivery tactics

7.2.4.1 Attack heading

7.2.4.2 Optimal attack zone

7.2.4.2.1 Exclusion zone

7.2.4.2.2 Angle of attack

7.2.4.3 Timing of lasing, seeking, and munitions delivery tactics

7.2.4.4 Backup method for target acquisition

7.2.5 Seeker lock-on errors

7.2.5.1.1 Coordination of laser codes

7.2.5.1.2 Seeker field of view

7.2.5.1.3 Aircraft headings

7.2.5.1.4 Positive knowledge of designator and target

7.2.5.1.5 Target placement

7.2.5.1.6 Screening designator position

7.2.5.2 Seeker locks on to backscatter

7.2.5.3 Seeker locks on to spillover

7.2.5.4 Seeker fails to lock-on to anything

7.2.6 Aircraft-mounted laser designators

7.2.7 Aircraft-released laser guided missiles

7.2.7.1 Lock-on-before-launch (LOBL)

7.2.7.2 Lock-on-after-launch (LOAL)

8. CONTROL MEASURES

8.1 Engineering controls

8.1.1 Engineering controls associated with the laser system

8.1.2 Backstop

8.1.3 Range maintenance

8.1.3.1 Vegetation control

8.1.3.2 Mitigation of specular hazards

8.1.4 Target/lasing position placement

8.2 Administrative controls

8.2.1 SOPs

8.2.2 Training

8.2.3 Range personnel

8.2.4 Warning signs and notices

8.2.5 Access control

8.2.6 Coordination of special use airspace (SUA)

8.2.6.1 Restricted areas

vi

PARAGRAPH PAGE

8.2.6.2 Warning areas

8.2.6.3 Military operations area (MOA)

8.2.6.4 Controlled firing area (CFA)

8.2.7 Coordination of navigable waterways

8.3 Personal protective equipment (PPE)

9. DANGER ZONES

9.1 Types of danger zones

9.2 Laser footprint

9.3 Factors affecting an LSDZ

9.3.1 Maximum permissible exposure (MPE) limit

9.3.2 Nominal ocular hazard distance (NOHD)

9.3.2.1 NOHD-M

9.3.3 Laser platform stability

9.4 LSDZ

9.4.1 NOHD and LSDZ

9.4.1.1 Use of optics

9.4.1.2 Use of backstop

9.4.2 Buffer angle

9.4.2.1 Factors affecting buffer angle

9.4.2.2 Determining buffer angle

9.5 Nominal hazard zone (NHZ)

9.5.1.1 Specular NHZ

9.5.1.2 Diffuse NHZ

9.6 Airborne LSDZ

10. LASER RANGE CERTIFICATION

10.1 Introduction

10.1.1 Multiple laser systems

10.2 Preparation for certification

10.2.1 Certification questionnaire

10.2.2 Scheduling

10.3 Certification process

10.4 Gather and review preliminary data

10.4.1 Range information

10.4.2 Laser information

10.4.3 Deconfliction of range activities

10.4.4 Training information

10.4.5 SOPs

10.4.6 Areas of concern

10.5 Perform preliminary data analysis using software/analysis methods

10.5.1 GIS data

10.6 Survey

10.6.1 Survey procedures and in-brief

10.6.2 Conduct of the survey

10.6.3 Out brief

10.7 Survey analysis

10.7.1 Creating the LSDZs

10.8 Report

10.9 Distribution and archiving

11. INSTITUTIONAL LASER RANGE AUTHORITY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

11.1 Institutional guidance regarding range laser safety

11.2 Laser range certification

11.3 Laser range hazard analysis

12. INSTALLATION LASER RANGE AUTHORITY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

vii

PARAGRAPH PAGE

12.1 Operating procedures

12.2. Laser training plan

12.2.1 LSDZ

12.3 Laser systems

12.4 Laser range design

12.5 Range laser safety compliance inspection/audit

12.6 Laser range certification

12.7 Laser briefings and indoctrination

12.7.1 Public notices

12.7.2 Affected users

12.8 Laser incident investigations

13. UNIT LASER RANGE AUTHORITY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

13.1 Laser training plan

13.2 Conduct of range laser safety inspection

13.2.1 Safety brief/pre-mission brief

13.3 Laser operations

13.3.1 Laser systems/targets

13.3.2 LSDZ

13.3.3 Pre-fire checks

13.3.4 Cease fire operations

13.3.5 General supervision

13.4 Laser incident investigations

14. NOTES

14.1 Intended use

14.2 Subject term (key word) listing

14.3 References

14.4 International standardization agreement implementation

14.5 Changes from previous issue

APPENDIX A LASER SAFETY SOP

A.1 SCOPE

A.2 INSTALLATION LASER RANGE AUTHORITY SOP RESPONSIBILITIES

A.2.1 Laser range SOP

A.3 UNIT SOP RESPONSIBILITIES

A.3.1 Unit laser range SOP

APPENDIX B EXAMPLE LASER RANGE CERTIFICATION QUESTIONNAIRE

B.1 SCOPE

B.1.1 Scope B.1.2 Laser range pre-survey questionnaire B.1.3 Laser range certification questionnaire B.1.4 Laser range survey report

APPENDIX C METHODOLOGY FOR RANGE LASER HAZARD EVALUATION

C.1 SCOPE

C.1.1 Scope

C.2 METHODOLOGY

C.2.1 Methodology C.2.2 Over the horizon lasing C.2.3 Hazard evaluation

C.3 FOOTPRINT DEFINITION

C.3.1 Ground laser footprint

C.4 HAZARD EVALUATION WITHOUT SPECULAR REFLECTIONS – AERIAL LASING

C.4.1 Single laser heading viii

PARAGRAPH PAGE

C.4.2 Multiple laser headings C.4.3 Unlevel terrain

C.4.3.1 Target on rising terrain or hills behind target (natural backstop) C.4.3.2 Falling terrain in target area or hills in foreground

C.5 SPECULAR REFLECTIONS

C.6 AIRCREW

C.7 GROUND PERSONNEL, SHIPBOARD PERSONNEL, OTHER AIRCRAFT, AND SURROUNDING

COMMUNITY

C.8 FOOTPRINT DETERMINATIONS

C.8.1 Ground based lasers C.8.1.1 Vertical buffer far boundary C.8.1.2 Vertical buffer near boundary C.8.1.3 Horizontal buffer C.8.1.4 Minimum safe lasing altitude (MSLA)

C.8.2 Airborne laser with target on level ground C.8.2.1 Aircraft minimum altitude C.8.2.2 Left and right hand LSDZ C.8.2.3 Airborne laser with target on sloping ground

INDEX

CONCLUDING MATERIAL

ii

LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE PAGE

FIGURE 1. Diffuse reflection FIGURE 2. Direct intrabeam viewing FIGURE 3. Reflected intrabeam viewing FIGURE 4. Specular (mirror-like) reflection from perpendicular surface FIGURE 5. Specular (mirror-like) reflection from an angled surface FIGURE 6. Reflection off curved specular surface FIGURE 7. Beam divergence FIGURE 8. Example of airborne laser beam reflection FIGURE 9. Atmospheric attenuation FIGURE 10. Line of sight FIGURE 11. Attack heading FIGURE 12. Optimal attack zone (top view) FIGURE 13. Optimal attack zone (side view) FIGURE 14. Optimal attack zone (vertical perspective) FIGURE 15. Target placement to provide offset FIGURE 16. Backscatter FIGURE 17. Spillover FIGURE 18. Warning sign FIGURE 19. Restricted airspace FIGURE 20. Laser surface danger zone (LSDZ) FIGURE 21. NOHD with/without viewing optics FIGURE 22. Effects of backstops FIGURE 23. LSDZ without and with backstop FIGURE 24. Buffer angle FIGURE B-1. Laser range pre-survey questionnaire FIGURE B-2. Laser range certification questionnaire FIGURE B-3. Laser range safety certification report FIGURE C-1. Laser footprint with single target side view FIGURE C-2. Laser footprint with multiple targets – side view FIGURE C-3. Laser footprint – top view FIGURE C-4 Integrated footprint –bearing 70 to 110 degrees FIGURE C-5. LSDZ – attack from any direction FIGURE C-6. LSDZ with rising terrain FIGURE C-7. Natural backstops to control laser beam FIGURE C-8. Insufficient backstop to control laser beam FIGURE C-9. LSDZ with terrain sloping down when range is less than NOHD FIGURE C-10. LSDZ with terrain sloping down when range is greater than NOHD FIGURE C-11. Reflections from still water with LDZ FIGURE C-12. Example of airborne laser beam reflection FIGURE C-13. Potential exposure modes FIGURE C-14. Reflections from flat specular surface – side view FIGURE C-15. Reflections from flat specular surface – top view FIGURE C-16. LSDZ geometry and vertical buffer iii

LIST OF FIGURES

FIGURE PAGE

FIGURE C-17. Calculation of available buffer versus allowed buffer FIGURE C-18. Case 1: FB or NB level with TGT FIGURE C-19. Case 2: Rising terrain FIGURE C-20. Case 3: Falling terrain FIGURE C-21. Airborne laser buffer geometry – level ground FIGURE C-22. Example laser aircraft flight profile FIGURE C-23. Laser target on sloping terrain

LIST OF TABLES

TABLE PAGE

TABLE I. Laser operations engagement scenarios TABLE II. Amount of reflectivity TABLE III. Typical buffer angle values for lasers using an alignment device (optics or sights)

1. SCOPE

1.1 Scope. This handbook contains general and detailed guidance to be followed in evaluating and recommending range laser safety procedures which are intended to serve as a guide to the safe use of laser systems on military operational training and test ranges. The handbook is for guidance only and cannot be cited as a requirement.

1.2 Application. This handbook applies to all ranges where service approved laser systems are employed or research and development lasers are being evaluated. The handbook addresses the roles of several levels of authority including institutional, installation, and unit, and subsequent positions of laser safety responsibility within the services.

This document is applicable to all Department of Defense (DoD) member ranges and all DoD laser operations conducted on non-DoD controlled ranges. The guidance in this document does not replace other procedures or release individuals from compliance with the requirements of their particular service.

This document implements information and methodologies in accordance with STANAG 3606.

Suggestions for any change, revision, or cancellation of this handbook are to be submitted through the DoD Laser

System Safety Working Group.

2. APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

2.1 General. The documents listed below are not necessarily all of the documents referenced herein, but are those needed to understand the information provided by this handbook.

2.2 Government documents.

2.2.1 Specifications, standards, and handbooks. The following specifications, standards, and handbooks form a part of this document to the extent specified herein.

INTERNATIONAL STANDARDIZATION AGREEMENTS

ARSP-4 - Laser Safety for Military Use

STANAG 3606 - Evaluation and Control of Laser Hazards on Military Ranges

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE STANDARDS

MIL-STD-1425 - Safety Design Requirements for Military Lasers and Associated Support

Equipment

(Copies of these documents are available online at http://quicksearch.dla.mil/.)

2.2.2 Other Government documents, drawings, and publications. The following other Government documents, drawings, and publications form a part of this document to the extent specified herein.

BUREAU OF MEDICINE AND SURGERY (BUMED)

BUMEDINST 6470.23 - Medical Management of Non-Ionizing Radiation Casualties

(Copies of this document are available online at www.med.navy.mil.)

CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS (CFR)

21 CFR 1040 - Performance Standards for Light-Emitting Products

(Copies of this document are available online at www.ecfr.gov.)

http://quicksearch.dla.mil/ http://www.med.navy.mil/ http://www.ecfr.gov/

DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE ISSUANCES

DoDI 6055.15 - DoD Laser Protection Program

(Copies of this document are available online at www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/.)

DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY ISSUANCES

OPNAVINST 5100.27/

MCO 5104.1

- Navy Laser Hazards Control Program

SECNAVINST 5100.14 - Military Exempt Lasers

(Copies of these documents are available online at http://doni.documentservices.dla.mil/default.aspx.)

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION (FAA)

7930.2 - Notices to Airmen (NOTAM)

(Copies of this document are available online at www.faa.gov.)

JOINT CHIEFS OF STAFF

Joint Publication (JP) 3-09.3 - Joint Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for Close Air Support

(CAS)

(Copies of this document are available online at http://www.dtic.mil/docs/citations/ADA429336.)

US AIR FORCE PUBLICATIONS

AFI 13-212VI - Range Planning and Operations

AFI 48-139 - Laser and Optical Radiation Protection Program

AFI 91-401 - Directed Energy Weapons Safety

(Copies of these documents are available online at http://www.e-publishing.af.mil.)

US ARMY PUBLICATIONS

AR 385-10 - The Army Safety Program

AR 40-5 - Preventive Medicine

DA PAM 385-24 - The Army Radiation Safety Program

DA PAM 385-40 - Army Accident Investigations and Reporting

DA PAM

385-63/MCO

P3570.1

- Range Safety

TB MED 524 - Occupational and Environmental Health: Control of Hazards to Health from Laser Radiation

(Copies of these documents are available online at http://www.apd.army.mil.)

http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/ http://doni.documentservices.dla.mil/default.aspx http://www.faa.gov/ http://www.dtic.mil/docs/citations/ADA429336 http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/ http://www.apd.army.mil/

US NAVY/MARINE CORPS PUBLICATIONS

MCO 3550.9 - Marine Corps Ground Range Certification and Recertification Program

MCO P3550.10 - Policies and Procedures for Range and Training Area (RTA) Management

MCO 3570.1 - Range Safety

(Copies of these documents are available online at https://rtam.tecom.usmc.mil).

2.3 Non-Government publications. The following documents form a part of this document to the extent specified herein.

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARDS INSTITUTE (ANSI)

ANSI Z136.1 - American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers

ANSI Z136.6 - Safe Use of Lasers Outdoors

(Copies of these documents are available online at http://webstore.ansi.org/).

3. DEFINITIONS

The following definitions and terms are used in this handbook. For other definitions associated with laser safety, refer to ANSI Z136.1, Safe Use of Lasers.

3.1 Administrative controls. A category of control measures used to eliminate hazards or reduce the degree of risk to personnel and equipment. Administrative controls reduce risks through specific actions. Administrative controls can be implemented by either local or higher authority.

3.2 Atmospheric attenuation. The reduction of energy of a laser beam due to absorption and scattering along its path by atmospheric conditions, such as smoke, haze, fog, or precipitation.

3.3 Attenuation. The decrease in the energy of any optical radiation beam as it passes through an absorbing or scattering medium, or both.

3.4 Laser beam divergence. The full angle increase in diameter of the laser beam with distance from the exit aperture of the laser.

3.5 Buffer angle. An angle added to the beam divergence or intended laser projection field in order to ensure a protection zone.

3.6 Buffer zone. The volume of space around a propagating laser beam defined by the buffer angle.

3.7 Controlled area. An area of occupancy or activity, where personnel/equipment are subject to control and supervision for the purpose of protection from radiation hazards.

3.8 Danger zone. An area determined by analysis of weapons characteristics and historical patterns to present risk to personnel or equipment within a designated three-dimensional space.

3.9 Diffuse reflection. Reflection from a surface in which the beam is scattered in all directions (for example, a reflection from a rough surface).

3.10 Engineering controls. A category of control measure used to eliminate hazards or reduce the degree of risk to personnel and equipment. Engineering controls use engineering methods to reduce risks by design, material selection, or substitution.

3.11 Exclusion zone. A designated area which aircraft headings should avoid because of the possibility of false target indications caused by atmospheric scatter from the laser beam within short distances from the laser exit port.

An exclusion zone is established as a sector where the apex is at the target and extends equidistant (10 degrees) either side of the target-to-laser designator line. This zone extends vertically to infinity and has a horizontal limit of

20 degrees.

https://rtam.tecom.usmc.mil/ http://webstore.ansi.org/

3.12 Flash blindness. A visual impairment during and following exposure to light of extremely high intensity, caused by blooming (saturation) of the retinal pigment, that may last for a few seconds to a few minutes.

3.13 Fratricide. The employment of friendly weapons with the intent to kill the enemy or destroy his equipment and facilities and which results in unforeseen and unintentional death, injury, or damage to friendly personnel or equipment.

3.14 Installation laser range authority. The organization that provides oversight for range laser activities at the installation level for the Navy, Air Force, and Marines is the Installation Range Laser Safety Officer. For the Army it is the Installation Range Control Officer.

3.15 Institutional laser range authority. The organization that provides oversight to range laser activities at the institutional level is the Institutional Range Laser Safety Specialist.

3.16 Laser. A device that emits light (electromagnetic radiation) through a process called stimulated emission.

The term laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.

3.17 Laser footprint. The projection of the laser beam on the ground or target area, to include the buffer angle.

3.18 Laser-guided weapon. A weapon that electro-optically seeks reflected laser from a separate designator source to strike a target. The laser is used to guide the munitions to a target. The acquisition device, which is a seeker and guidance kit mounted on the laser-guided weapon, seeks coded laser energy reflected from the target.

3.19 Laser range. A range designated for laser systems use.

3.20 Laser range certification. An approval based on an evaluation process conducted to ensure safety margins are determined to allow for the diverse application of the many lasers that may be used on a range, defining the degree of laser radiation hazard possible and to recommend control measures.

3.21 Laser spot size. The area of a laser beams projection on a target. The laser spot size is a function of beam divergence and the distance from the laser designator to the target.

3.22 Laser spot tracker. A type of laser acquisition device, normally mounted on fixed-wing or rotary wing aircraft, used to aid visual acquisition of the target to be engaged by another weapon.

3.23 Laser surface danger zone (LSDZ). Designated area where laser radiation levels may exceed maximum permissible exposure levels, thereby requiring control during laser use. Some organizations use this term interchangeably with Nominal Hazard Zone (NHZ), which includes airspace. To minimize confusion in this document, we will refer to LSDZ generally and use NHZ when not specifically referring to surface dangers. The

LSDZ is an area where unauthorized personnel and equipment are not permitted and laser Personal Protective

Equipment (PPE) (eye and skin) is required for personnel who may be exposed within this area.

3.24 Laser target designator. A laser used to mark a target or to guide munitions to a target.

3.25 Laser training area (LTA). A training area in which laser systems are used.

3.26 Maximum permissible exposure (MPE). The level of laser radiation to which a person may be exposed without hazardous effect or adverse biological changes in the eye or skin.

3.27 Milliradian (mrad). Unit of angular measure. One mrad equals one thousandth of a radian. One degree equals 17.45 milliradians.

3.28 Night vision goggles/devices. A nonthermal image intensification device used to enhance night vision.

3.29 Nominal hazard zone (NHZ). Describes the space within which the level of the direct, reflected, or scattered radiation may exceed the applicable MPE during normal operation. Exposure levels outside the NHZ are below the applicable MPE level. The NHZ consists of the target area plus the buffer zones. The NHZ is often confined by the application of backstops. For un-terminated direct viewing this zone would extend to the Nominal

Ocular Hazard Distance (NOHD).

3.30 Nominal ocular hazard distance (NOHD). NOHD is the distance from an operating laser to the point where the laser irradiance or radiant exposure is not expected to exceed the appropriate MPE. For the purpose of this document, the term NOHD is used generically such that it does not imply the use of or exclusion of magnifying optics. Terms for the hazard distance specifically associated with viewing lasers with magnifying optics include

NOHD-M (magnified) and Extended Nominal Ocular Hazard Distance (ENOHD).

3.31 Ocular interruption (OI) devices. Laser systems that are used to intentionally illuminate the eyes of an individual(s) to provide a warning to them. Fielded as a non-lethal device to be used as part of the escalation of force procedures with vehicle checkpoints, entry control points, perimeter security, and convoys.

3.32 Operator-controlled laser. A laser with sufficiently short NOHD (approximately 100 meters unaided viewing and 700 meters for optically aided viewing) that the operator can effectively mitigate the hazard by controlling the use of the laser without the requirements of other control measures typically associated with higher-classed laser systems. The operator is responsible for monitoring the controlled area.

3.33 Optical density. The amount of laser protection afforded by a particular eye protection for a particular laser wavelength.

3.34 Optically aided viewing. Viewing of lasers using an optical magnifier, such as binoculars or a scope.

3.35 Personal protective equipment (PPE). Control measures used to protect personnel from the hazardous effects (eye and skin hazards) of lasers. PPE include goggles and spectacles to protect the eyes, and clothing and gloves to protect the skin.

3.36 Scatter. An effect caused by a laser beam reflecting off of particles in the air. Scatter is most pronounced at small distances from the laser source.

3.37 Seeker. Laser acquisition device; it identifies laser designated targets so they can be engaged with a ground, airborne, or naval weapon.

3.38 Specular reflection. A reflection of a laser beam off of smooth mirror-like surfaces causing the beam to remain coherent upon leaving the surface.

3.39 Spillover. Spillover occurs when part of the laser spot misses the intended target. This can be also termed underspill (in front of target) or overspill (beyond the target).

3.40 Standard operating procedure (SOP). Formal written description of the safety and administrative procedures to be followed in performing a specific task.

3.41 Surface danger zone (SDZ). The ground and airspace designated within the training complex (to include associated safety areas) for vertical and lateral containment of projectiles, fragments, debris, and components resulting from the firing, launching, or detonation of weapon systems, to include explosives and demolitions.

3.42 Unit laser range authority. The organization that provides oversight to range laser activities at the unit level for the Navy, Air Force, and Marines is the Unit Laser Safety Officer. For the Army it is the Laser Range

Safety Officer.

3.43 Weapon danger zone (WDZ). The ground and airspace for lateral and vertical containment of projectiles, fragments, debris, and components resulting from the firing, launching, and detonation of aviation-delivered ordnance. It reflects the minimum land and air requirement, to include terrain mitigation, needed to safely employ a given weapon. This zone accounts for inaccuracy, failures, ricochets, and broaching/purposing of a specific weapon/munitions type delivered by a specific aircraft type. The WDZ “footprint” is based on the specific weapon characteristics, type of delivery being executed, the type of platform (aircraft) delivering the ordnance, and level of containment acceptable to the installation commander.

4. GENERAL LASER INFORMATION

4.1 Laser. Lasers emit light in a narrow, coherent beam of energy. Due to the increased directional intensity of optical radiation generated by a laser, a concentrated optical beam is present at considerable distances which may present a hazard to personnel and equipment.

4.2 Laser system. A laser system is an assembly of electrical, mechanical, optical, and software components which includes a laser. The terms “laser”, “laser system”, and “laser device” are considered equivalent within this document.

4.2.1 Laser classification. Laser systems are classified according to their relative hazards from Class 1 (least hazardous) to Class 4 (most hazardous).

4.2.1.1 Class 1. Class 1 laser systems pose no hazard under any normal viewing condition.

4.2.1.2 Class 1M. Class 1M laser systems are only hazardous when viewed by magnifying optics.

4.2.1.3 Class 2. Class 2 laser systems are low-power visible wavelength lasers which are not considered hazardous for momentary (0.25 second), unintentional exposure because the normal observer will blink or look away before eye damage can occur.

4.2.1.4 Class 2M. Class 2M laser systems are low-power visible wavelength lasers similar to Class 2 but are hazardous when viewed with magnifying optics even for a momentary exposure.

4.2.1.5 Class 3. Class 3 laser systems are medium-power lasers. They are hazardous to personnel and equipment that are in the beam path when viewing the source directly or by specular reflection. They usually do not present a diffuse reflection or skin hazard.

4.2.1.5.1 Class 3R. Class 3R laser systems are considered safe, if handled carefully, with restricted intrabeam viewing. With a class 3R laser, the MPE can be exceeded but with a low risk of injury.

4.2.1.5.2 Class 3B. Class 3B laser systems are powerful and can cause serious eye injury for exposures of very short duration. They can be hazardous for long distances downrange from the laser system.

4.2.1.6 Class 4. Class 4 laser systems are very powerful and the most dangerous laser systems. They can be hazardous for extremely long distances downrange from the laser system. They can also present a potential diffuse reflection viewing hazard as well as a possible skin or fire hazard.

4.3 Laser range. A range on which laser systems are employed singularly or with weapon systems.

4.4 Laser system applications. Developments in laser technology have resulted in an increase in the use of laser systems for military application. Military lasers are used primarily for target acquisition, target designation, range-finding, fire control, ocular interruption, directed energy weaponry, and communications.

4.4.1 Laser target ranging and designation. Laser target ranging and designation systems can provide accurate range, azimuth, and elevation information to locate enemy targets. In combination with global positioning system

(GPS), lasers can provide accurate enemy target locations. Laser target designators mark targets for engagement.

When within range, the laser designator can be aimed so the energy precisely designates a chosen spot on the target.

4.4.2 Laser spot tracker. The laser spot tracker identifies the reflected laser energy from a laser designator off the target and displays the target’s position on a display panel. Unless this is used with a visual verification an erroneous target could be detected (the laser designator).

4.4.3 Laser-guided weapon. A laser-guided weapon uses a laser to guide the munition to the target by illuminating the target with coded pulses of laser energy that is diffusely reflected from the target. Some laser-guided weapons require laser target designation before launch/release, during the entire time of flight, or only during the terminal portion of flight.

4.4.4 Laser marking. Laser marking involves using a laser to get an individual’s attention (from a distance on the ground or in an aircraft) in order to point out the location of a target using the laser.

4.4.5 Ocular interruption (OI) devices. OI devices should meet stringent safety criteria and be able to deliver a warning effect to targeted personnel by obscuring their vision. The devices currently in use may be Class 3R or greater laser systems that can be employed in training safely but due to the intensity of the laser beam it poses an eye hazard within the NOHD if not employed correctly. The laser system should be terminated if exposure distances approach the NOHD of the system (known and briefed prior to use).

4.5 Laser operations. Laser operations involve employment of a laser system to use a weapon, acquire a target for illumination, pointing, target designation, weapon guidance, range-finding, communication, or to provide ocular interruption. These laser systems may be mounted on a platform, a weapon, or they may be hand-held. Laser operations fall into nine different engagement scenarios that are detailed below in table I.

TABLE I. Laser operations engagement scenarios.

Ground to Ground Air to Ground

Ground to Air Air to Air

Ground to Surface Air to Subsurface

Subsurface to Ground Subsurface to Air

Subsurface to Subsurface

4.5.1 Force-on-force laser operations. These operations involve combat simulation, target acquisition, illumination, pointing, target designation, weapons guidance, or range-finding against friendly or opposing forces.

Force-on-force lasers should be addressed on an individual basis by the local range authority with assistance from range safety specialists. Tactical exercises involving force-on-force components using laser systems other than

Multiple Integrated Laser Engagement System (MILES) may be approved by the installation commander.

4.6 Laser beam reflection. A laser beam reflects off surfaces it comes into contact with. The magnitude of the reflection is dependent upon the material surface and the angle of incidence, such as light striking a surface will reflect at the same angle that it interacts with the surface.

4.6.1 Specular reflection (mirror-like surface). Reflection of a laser beam off of smooth surfaces such as a mirror, a still body of water, clean ice, plate glass, or chrome-plated metal produces a type of reflection known as specular reflection. Laser beams reflected off specular surfaces (especially flat specular surfaces) retain much of their collimation and still may be a hazard for a considerable distance.

4.6.2 Diffuse reflection. Reflection of a laser beam off of rough surfaces. Examples of diffuse reflectors include dry foliage, rock, camouflage, soil, matte paint, aluminum cans, paper, terrain, roadways, and old ordnance.

Diffuse targets reflect light and laser energy in a hemispherical pattern centered at the point of impact (see figure 1).

A diffuse surface is one that distorts (or diffuses) the beam shape, normally resulting in a safe-to-view reflection from outside the target area. The radiation will scatter in many different directions depending on the angle of incidence. Diffuse surfaces reflect energy in all possible directions including toward the laser. A hazardous diffuse reflection can only be produced by a Class 4 laser system.

FIGURE 1. Diffuse reflection.

4.7 Hazards associated with range laser operations.

4.7.1 Eye damage. The widespread use of laser systems increases the probability of personnel exposure to levels of laser radiation above MPE levels, possibly resulting in injury. The principal hazard associated with exposure to laser radiation is damage to the eye; including the retina, the cornea, and lens, depending on the laser wavelength. Laser systems can seriously injure the unprotected eyes of individuals within the hazard zone of the laser beam.

a. Intrabeam viewing of either the direct beam or a beam reflected from a surface may expose unprotected eyes to a potential injury (see figure 2 and figure 3).

FIGURE 2. Direct intrabeam viewing.

FIGURE 3. Reflected intrabeam viewing.

b. Specular reflections greatly affect the hazard potential of a laser system.

c. Direct intrabeam viewing or viewing of a specular reflection while using an optical aid, such as binoculars or a scope, could greatly increase the hazard potential of the laser because these devices magnify the beam intensity.

4.7.2 Skin damage. Class 3B and Class 4 laser systems have the potential for producing skin damage.

4.7.3 Flash blindness. A visual impairment during and following exposure to light of extremely high intensity, caused by blooming (saturation) of the retinal pigment, that may last for a few seconds to a few minutes.

4.7.4 Dazzle. To lose clear vision from looking at a bright light, such as a visible wavelength laser.

4.7.5 Disability glare. Obscuration of an object in a person’s field of view due to a bright light source located near the same line-of-sight.

4.7.6 Startle. An involuntary movement or reaction resulting from a sudden or unexpected stimulus, such as a visible wavelength laser’s light abruptly appearing in one’s field of view. Personnel may be distracted or startled by unexpected sub-MPE visible laser exposure.

4.7.7 Fratricide. In operations involving laser guided munitions or other laser detectors, the detector may acquire radiation sources within the field of detection other than the target if certain precautions are not taken. If the munitions are misguided, fratricide may occur. Designated areas and tactics should be planned to ensure that scattered laser energy from the designator is not in the field-of-view of the munitions. Misdirected high energy laser beams may also have the potential to cause fratricide.

5. LASER TARGET AND LASER TARGET AREA CONSIDERATIONS

5.1 Target types. The targets employed in conjunction with a laser operation are selected based on the weapons employed and the testing and training requirements. Operators and crews should conduct laser operations only on approved targets and in approved target areas.

5.2 Target material and diffuse reflectivity. In a laser operation involving a laser-guided weapon, the target is designated using a laser. A laser-guided weapon acquires and follows the coded diffuse reflected laser energy to strike the target. This means that the target needs to reflect sufficient laser energy for the laser seeker to lock-on.

Certain materials reflect laser energy better than others. For targets with higher reflectivity, the probability of a laser seeker picking up the laser spot is increased. Table II below presents the amount of reflectivity for various types of material.

TABLE II. Amount of reflectivity.

Material Amount (%) of Reflectivity

Olive Drab Metal (dirty) 2 – 30%

Concrete 10 – 15%

Asphalt 10 – 25%

Unpolished Aluminum 55%

Vegetation 30 – 70%

Brick 55 – 90%

5.2.1 Specular reflection. Approved laser targets should not contain specular reflective (mirror-like) surfaces unless testing or training dictates. Specular reflections can redirect the beam out of the controlled area and can result in eye or skin injury and may also damage equipment. Examples of flat specular reflectors that may be targets include flat glass, flat window, still water, instrument gauge, vehicle rear view mirror, or vision viewblocks.

5.2.1.1 Flat specular surfaces. If a mirror-like surface is perpendicular to a laser beam, the beam will be reflected directly toward the laser position (see figure 4).

FIGURE 4. Specular (mirror-like) reflection from perpendicular surface.

If the mirror is at an angle to the laser beam, the beam reflects and remains concentrated upon leaving the surface and will be reflected at an angle equal to the angle of the incident beam (see figure 5)

FIGURE 5. Specular (mirror-like) reflection from an angled surface.

Concave reflective surfaces can focus the reflected beam and cause the reflection to be more hazardous than the incident beam (figure 6). Normally, these reflections are of little concern because it is improbable that the surface is perfectly concave (focuses the beam to a single point) or perfectly reflective. Examples of curved specular reflectors include optical sights, curved windows, vehicle bumpers, headlight assemblies, or bottles. Glossy foliage, raindrops, fog, and most other natural objects are not considered to be specular surfaces that would create ocular hazards. This is because their curved reflective surfaces cause the beam to spread and the reflected energy decreases quickly with distance.

FIGURE 6. Reflection off curved specular surface.

5.3 Target size. Target size impacts the effectiveness of laser operations.

5.3.1 Laser spot size. The laser spot size is the diameter of the beam at any given distance.

5.3.2 Laser beam divergence. Beam divergence is the spread of the laser beam over distance. Laser spot size is a function of beam divergence and the distance from the laser system to the target. If a designator has a beam spread or divergence of 0.25 milliradian, its spot would have a diameter of approximately 0.25 meter at a distance of

1,000 meters in front of the designator. At 5,000 meters, the beam would spread to 1.25 meters; at 10,000 meters, the beam would spread to 2.5 meters (see figure 7).

FIGURE 7. Beam divergence.

5.3.3 Spillover. Spillover occurs when some of the laser energy impacts an object other than the intended target that could potentially create stronger reflected energy than from the target itself. For planning purposes, laser spot size should be determined and ideally equal to no more than half the target surface area. If not, the potential for spillover can cause a misdirection of the weapon.

5.4 Target placement. On laser training areas, targets are placed to accommodate the training and test requirements. However, there are additional considerations for placement when employing lasers:

a. Targets should be positioned so the laser hazard can be contained within range boundaries/constraints. This can be accomplished by elevating the lasing platform, using a backstop, or adjusting the distance from laser to target.

b. Targets should be located so that there is an uninterrupted line of sight from the lasing position to the target.

c. Targets should be oriented so the diffused reflected energy can be detected. This includes adjusting their position laterally as well as vertically.

d. Targets should be staged/positioned so that specular reflections are eliminated or mitigated.

5.5 Target maintenance. Specular surfaces should be removed from all targets designated as laser targets prior to placement or if already in place, prior to engagement. If it is not feasible to remove all specular surfaces from the target, these surfaces should be covered with a diffuse material prior to use as a target. Targets should be regularly inspected by Installation Laser Range Authority personnel to ensure they do not produce a specular reflection.

Target maintenance includes the guidance of 5.5.1 and 5.5.2.

5.5.1 Target condition. Careful attention should be paid to the condition of the target. A specular hazard can present itself upon impacts or explosions which cause target materials to break apart or from high energy laser/material interaction. Weather can deteriorate material as well. Broken or bent specular surfaces can have a flat surface remaining to generate a specular reflection. Target condition should be periodically checked by Installation

Laser Range Authority personnel.

a. Specular reflectors should be covered, removed, or rendered diffuse by painting with a matte (non-specular reflecting) paint, sand-blasting, or scuffing up so they do not produce a reflection.

b. Concave (bowl-shaped) surfaces with a large radius of curvature which could focus the reflected beam at longer distances outside the controlled area should be removed.

5.5.2 Target area condition. Terrain, unexploded ordnance, glossy painted surfaces, trash, and standing water can produce diffuse and specular reflectors within the target area. Snow is not a specular surface, but if thawed and refrozen hazardous reflections can be found especially at low angles of incidence. Still water and clean ice can also reflect laser beams, especially at low angles of incidence. Figure 8 illustrates the reflection that can take place when a laser beam strikes still water. Target area condition should be reviewed periodically as determined necessary by the Installation Laser Range Authority to eliminate or mitigate specular hazards.

FIGURE 8. Example of airborne laser beam reflection.

a. All specular hazards should be removed or mitigated from the laser training area. If potential reflections have not been considered for the approved target area, ranges will be closed (for example, when still water is present on the ground).

b. Target location should be checked periodically by Installation Laser Range Authority personnel to ensure the location has not changed due to munitions impact. A change in target location or orientation can affect the angle of the laser beam to the target, thereby affecting the LSDZ for that laser system.

c. The position and orientation of any specular reflectors that cannot be removed or rendered diffuse should be noted so they can be considered during the laser range certification. It may be possible to position the specular reflector away from the laser impact so that it will not be a hazard.

6. GENERAL RANGE LASER SAFETY

6.1. Fundamentals. The fundamental concept of range laser safety is to prevent direct and collateral injury or damage resulting from laser use. Personnel using, or supervising the use of lasers, should be thoroughly familiar with all aspects of laser operations and associated dangers. The following guidelines should be used in conjunction with the guidance provided in referenced publications when employing lasers. Lasers should be treated as direct-fire weapons. Precautions associated with direct-fire weapons should be applied to all lasers operated on military ranges.

a. General service range laser safety requirements are outlined in AR 385-10, DA PAM 385-63/MCO 3570.1, OPNAVINST 5100.27/MCO 5104.1, and AFI 13-212. Prior to laser use, the Unit Laser Range Authority should brief personnel on use of lasers.

c. The use of Class 3B, Class 4, or DoD exempt lasers on test and training ranges should be conducted only at installations that have been certified for the safe use of lasers in accordance with service-specific requirements.

Special consideration may be given to ranges using operator-controlled lasers.

d. A survey of the proposed lasing and target area should be accomplished to determine laser elevation and azimuth limits within the laser footprint. Restrictions should be applied to prevent lasing above the horizon unless authorized.

6.2 Laser systems.

a. Laser systems should only be directed at approved targets/target areas and only from approved operating positions/areas or on designated headings and altitudes or angles and azimuths.

b. Laser systems should only be used on ranges approved for such use.

c. Stationary Continuously Operating Lasers. Uses of lasers, such as the light detection and ranging (LiDAR), space probes, or laser warning lights operating continuously in airspace may require additional controls. These emissions may require coordination with the applicable service airspace representative, the Federal Aviation

Administration and Laser Clearinghouse (LCH) if the laser is directed above the horizon.

d. When lasers are not in use, hazardous laser output should be prevented by removing batteries or implementation of engineering controls such as a software, output covers, or rotating the laser into the stowed position unless otherwise specifically authorized by the local SOP.

e. Non-laser activities, such as viewing through common optics, can be conducted outside of a laser controlled area by instituting procedures that ensure power to the laser is turned off.

f. When laser systems have both training and combat operating modes, the tactical mode should be employed only when the SOP authorizes.

g. Laser systems should not be employed on a range that is outside the scope of an applicable SOP

(see Appendix A).

6.3 Unprotected personnel. Unprotected personnel will not be exposed to laser radiation within the LSDZ of the laser system.

6.4 Protected personnel. Personnel within the LSDZ should wear PPE during laser operations. Eye wear will be approved for the wavelength and corresponding optical density of the laser system being used. Skin protection should be worn when appropriate.

6.5 Aided viewing. Aided viewing involves the use of optical devices including binoculars, scopes, and rangefinders. The magnification of laser energy can significantly increase the probability of eye injury. The use of magnifying optical devices to observe the target during laser operation is permitted if specular surfaces have been removed from the target area, appropriate filters are used, or it is being viewed beyond the NOHD with magnifying optics. Optical devices not marked with the level of protection should be assumed to offer no protection unless verified Personnel should not view direct laser radiation with optical instruments within associated NOHD unless such instruments have appropriate laser filters in place.

6.6 Night vision devices (NVD). NVDs may be used to detect lasers. Night vision devices should not be used for laser eye protection (LEP). These devices are not ‘cover-all’ goggles. Laser energy may enter the eye from offset angles where protection is not afforded. The damage threshold for NVDs may be as low as, or lower than, the damage threshold for the human eye.