Safety Minute - May 9, 2025

In a laser lab, high voltages are often present for controlling mechanical components, powering electro-optical components such as Pockels cells, and pumping laser diodes. The voltages that power components within our amplifiers can cause serious damage, including muscle contractions and breathing problems that could lead to death.

Here are some quick safety tips for working with high voltages!

• Work with a buddy

• Have dry hands with no jewelry

• Keep one hand away from the power source

• Wait 60 seconds after disconnecting a circuit before working on it

See the file below for more details and sources!

Safety Minute_05-09-2025_High-Voltage.pdf

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