The EPA does not regulate the possession or use of lasers. The EPA has prepared this information sheet to assist the general public in finding information on the following lasers: hand held laser pointers; lasers used in industry, and lasers used for cosmetic purposes.
Hand held laser pointers
The use of hand held laser pointers is regulated by NSW police under the Weapons Prohibition Act 1998. Details relating to hand held lasers can be found at Laser Pointers - NSW Police Online.
Lasers used in industry
Lasers used in industry are regulated by SafeWork NSW (formerly WorkCover) under Work Health and Safety Regulation 2017 (clause 223). This clause applies to the person with management or control, at a workplace, of laser equipment that may create a risk to health and safety.
For further information on this topic please contact SafeWork NSW on 13 10 50 or email contact@safework.nsw.gov.au.
Lasers used for cosmetic purposes
The use of lasers for cosmetic and related procedures was considered at a national level by the Radiation Health Committee (RHC) established under the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Act 1998 and administered by the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA).
In May 2015 ARPANSA prepared for public comment a Consultation Regulatory Impact Statement to cover the use of Intense Pulsed Light sources (IPLs) and Lasers in Cosmetic and Beauty Therapy. On 17 March 2017 an analysis of public submissions – technical report was completed and published.
As a result of the public consultation ARPANSA has prepared advice for the cosmetic and beauty therapy industry to promote managing key issues around their use in two key areas: consumer education and treatment provider competency.
For information on lasers and IPLs refer to the ARPANSA advice Lasers, IPL sources and LED phototherapy in the cosmetic and beauty therapy industry.
Consumer complaints regarding cosmetic lasers and IPL devices should be referred to Fair Trading NSW.