Table 2.

Recommended Control Strategies for Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) Treatments

Control level	Example
Engineering control	1. All windows, doorways, and other open portals to an enclosed facility should be covered or restricted to reduce any escaping non-ionizing radiation.
	2. Continuous, pulsed, or repetitive laser radiation for PDT treatments should only be administered using a foot/hand switch that has been engineered to require constant pressure.
	3. Use diffusely reflecting materials near the light source.
	4. Ensure that light-generating devices are equipped with an emergency kill switch in case of emergency.
Administrative control	1. Ensure that a route for rapid egress by treatment personnel is kept available at all times during the PDT session.
	2. An entryway warning system should be used when light source/PDT is in operation.
	3. An appropriate laser warning sign should be posted both inside and outside the laser-controlled area.
	4. Store or disable light-generating equipment when not in use.
	5. Avoid the use of dry materials and/or flammable objects near laser radiation area.
	6. Completely train individuals involved with PDT treatments in all aspects of non-ionizing radiation safety.
	7. Training of health care providers in all aspects of medical laser or PDT treatments is required when lasers are used for the treatment procedure.
	8. Training of all personnel who may require frequent entry into the PDT treatment areas to recognize warning signs and dangers associated with exposure to the light source radiation is required.
	9. A Laser Safety Officer must be designated for a facility when lasers are used for PDT treatment.
	10. Entry of any personnel not involved with PDT treatment should be restricted when devices are in use.
Personal protective equipment	1. Appropriate protective eyewear must be provided to all personnel, including patients if necessary, within the treatment area.
	2. Verify that all eyewear in use is proper protection for the DED wavelength and PDT regimen in use at that particular point in time. Different PDT regimens operate at varying wavelengths, which may require more than one set of eyewear to be available for use depending upon treatment regimens.
	3. Appropriate protective garments must be provided to all personnel, including patients if necessary, within the treatment area.
	4. Appropriate gloves with compatible materials for use with a given PDT photosensitizer must be worn within the treatment area.