Appropriate safety training is essential for all aesthetic laser and IPL operators to ensure full competency, and compliance with legislation (Artificial Optical Radiation Directive). This course will provide that essential training, and covers the requirements set out in the legislation.
COURSES
Aesthetic Laser and IPL Core of Knowledge Safety Course
This course has been approved by the British Medical Laser Association, and can be taken live and online, or online and self-paced.
Compliance with Health & Safety Legislation, RQIA, CQC, HIS, and HIW
Courses Options
About the course
This course follows the Core of Knowledge syllabus recommended for clinical laser and IPL users, and specifically covers aesthetic lasers and IPLs and the risks associated with them. The Core of Knowledge syllabus can be found here.
This course is approved by the British Medical Laser Association:
The course content is broken into three sections:
- Basic principles of laser generation and review of laser and IPL technology, emission characteristics and laser-tissue interaction.
- Dangers of accidental exposure from lasers and IPLs, laser and IPL standards, and the engineering hazard controls built in them.
- Health and safety legislation requirements for lasers and IPLs, and the controls you must put in place.
What this course does not cover:
Please note that this training does not cover how individual lasers and IPLs should be used or therapeutic techniques and protocols. For this type of training you should refer to your laser supplier.
Course certificate and notes
Once you have completed a short feedback questionnaire you will receive:
- A certificate of attendance with the British Medical Laser Association logo, showing that this course is approved by them.
- A link to the recording of the course, which will be available for one month.
- Course notes.
If you would you have any questions about these courses please contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions About Aesthetic Laser Safety Training
What laser safety training is required for aesthetic clinics in Ireland and the UK?
The Artificial Optical Radiation Directive, which applies to the EU and the UK, requires suitable training for anyone who may be exposed to artificial optical radiation.
In aesthetic clinics, this typically means:
- Clinical operators complete Core of Knowledge laser safety training alongside device-specific manufacturer training
- Staff, including contractors, present during treatments receive awareness-level training based on the risks identified in the clinic’s risk assessment
Training should always reflect the devices in use and the level of exposure risk within the clinic.
What is Core of Knowledge laser safety training?
Core of Knowledge training provides the foundational understanding required to safely work with laser and IPL devices.
It covers:
- Laser physics and tissue interaction
- Laser and IPL hazard and risk control measures
- Applicable safety standards and legislation
- Safe working practices within a clinical environment
This training supports practitioners in understanding not just how to use devices, but how to manage the associated risks.
Who needs Core of Knowledge training in an aesthetic clinic?
Core of Knowledge training is required for clinical staff who operate laser or IPL devices.
This includes practitioners performing treatments such as:
- Laser/IPL hair removal
- Laser/IPL skin rejuvenation
- Pigmentation or vascular treatments
- Laser tattoo removal
It is completed as well as manufacturer-provided device training and forms part of a compliant training framework.
What is laser safety awareness training?
Laser safety awareness training provides a basic understanding of laser hazards and safety controls.
It is designed for staff, or contractor such as photographers, who may be present in or near the treatment environment.
The focus is on:
- Recognising warning signs and controlled areas
- Understanding basic safety precautions
- Knowing what to do in the event of an incident
Who needs awareness-level laser safety training?
Awareness-level training is required for all staff who may work in or interact with the Laser Controlled Area.
- Staff assisting during treatments require awareness-level training
- All clinic staff should receive basic awareness so they understand warning signs, access restrictions, and what to do in the event of an incident
The level of training should always be determined through the clinic’s laser risk assessment.
Is manufacturer training enough for laser safety compliance?
No. Manufacturer training and laser safety training serve different purposes.
- Manufacturer training focuses on the operation of a specific device
- Laser safety training provides understanding of hazards, risk control measures, and regulatory responsibilities
Both are required to demonstrate that risks are being properly managed.
How do clinics decide what level of training each staff member needs?
raining requirements should be defined through the clinic’s laser/IPL risk assessment and based on each staff member’s role in relation to the laser.
This assessment considers:
- The type of devices in use
- The treatments being performed
- The setup and controls within the Laser/IPL Controlled Area
From this, training is assigned appropriately, ensuring that operators and non-operators receive the level of training required for their role.
What attendees have said about our courses
We get predominately get 5 stars feedback for these courses, and we welcome all feedback. We are constantly updating and improving our courses and your feedback is important to us. Here are some comments our courses have received:
You Might Also Find These Resources Helpful
Why Every Aesthetic Clinic Needs an IPL & Laser Core of Knowledge Course
https://laserprotectionadviser.ie/core-of-knowledge-training-for-aesthetic-clinics-stay-safe-stay-compliant/
https://laserprotectionadviser.ie/the-mhra-roadmap-what-it-means-for-laser-aesthetics-clinics/
https://laserprotectionadviser.ie/authorised-users-who-can-use-the-laser-or-ipl/
https://laserprotectionadviser.ie/laser-assessment-ce-marking/
https://laserprotectionadviser.ie/the-complete-guide-to-aesthetic-laser-ipl-safety-training-for-practitioners/
