Which item is considered an administrative control for laser safety?

• A. STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES (SOPS)
• B. Mechanical interlock
• C. Enclosure design
• D. Ventilation

Answer: (A)

Administrative controls are policy-based measures that change how work is performed to reduce risk. Standard operating procedures for laser use establish exactly how to set up, align, operate, maintain, and shut down the system, who is authorized to perform tasks, what training is required, how to handle lockout/permit processes, and what steps to take in an emergency. They shape behavior and ensure consistency across operators, lowering the chance of accidental exposure even when equipment is complex or operators are new. The other items are physical or engineering controls: a mechanical interlock automatically disables the laser when a door or shield is opened; enclosure design contains the beam; and ventilation helps remove fumes or airborne hazards. So the standard operating procedures embody the administrative approach to safety.