Core of Knowledge
About Course
Take your professional skills to the next level with our essential online Core of Knowledge course, the key to mastering safe and confident use of laser, IPL, and LED technology in beauty and healthcare.
This course is designed to deepen your understanding of laser, IPL, and LED technology, focusing on optical radiation-tissue interactions, safety protocols, hazard identification, risk assessments, and practical considerations. It serves as the minimum standard of training for authorised users and must be refreshed at least every five years to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.
You will learn about equipment used alongside optical radiation devices, such as optical fibers, contact tips, and articulated arms, equipping you with a well-rounded knowledge base. Please note, this course does not cover non-laser, non-IPL, or UV treatment sources.
This course is suitable for:
- Healthcare professionals, including doctors, surgeons, nurses, and dentists, who use lasers, IPL, or LEDs in their practice
- Beauty therapists offering laser/IPL treatments
- Laser protection advisers, officers, and supervisors
- Tattoo artists and assistants using lasers for tattoo removal
- Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) and regulators overseeing establishments with laser/IPL equipment
- Any other professionals needing a solid understanding of optical radiation devices
The course comprises three engaging modules, each ending with a multiple-choice questionnaire to assess your knowledge and application of the material. A minimum score of 75% is required to achieve certification.
Disclaimer: This course provides detailed information on the “Core of Knowledge,” but it should never replace technical instructions or local procedures specific to your workplace. Staying current with your local regulations and equipment guidelines is essential for safe practice.
Course Content
Core of Knowledge
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Course Overview
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History of Lasers & Optical Radiation
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Standards, Regulations and Guidance
Module 1 – Laser & Light Technologies
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Introduction to Optical Radiation
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The Electromagnetic Spectrum and Visible Light
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Properties of Laser Light
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Active Media and Types of Lasers
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Laser Classifications and Safety Categories
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Ionising vs Non-Ionising Radiation
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Ablative vs Non-Ablative Lasers
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Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and LED Devices
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Measurement of Power and Energy
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Module 1 Summary
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Module 1 Questions
Module 2 – Hazards, Risk Assessment & Safety
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Learning Outcomes
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Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE)
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Risk Assessment Principles
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Hazards of Optical Radiation (Eye & Skin)
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Key Equipment Safety Features
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Non-Beam Hazards (Electrical, Fire, Plume)
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Beam Hazards
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Vulnerable Groups & Special Considerations
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Control Measures & Safety Protocols
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Local Rules, LPA and LPS
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Emergency Procedures & Incident Reporting
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Module 2 Summary
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Module 2 Questions
Module 3 – Safety Legislation, Measures & Management
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Controlled Areas & Access Restrictions
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Treatment Room Requirements & Equipment
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Equipment Management & Legislation
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Treatment Protocols & Optical Radiation Safety Policy
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Protective Eyewear
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Signage & Warning Indicators
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Clinical & Equipment Safety Assessment
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CE / UKCA Marking
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Labelling
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Local Rules
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Official Roles in Laser Safety Management
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Emergency Stop Controls & Interlocks
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Beam Alignment Procedures
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Plume Management & Evacuation Systems
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Use of Distance Gauges & Consistent Fluence
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Module 3 Summary
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Module 3 Questions
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Resources & References
