New International Laser Safety Standard Published, Backed by Chinese Industry Expertise

## New Global Safety Standard for Handheld Laser Processing Equipment Takes Effect The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has officially published ISO 11553-2:2026 — *Safety of Machinery: Laser Processing Machines — Part 2: Safety Requirements for Hand-Held or Hand-Operated Laser Processing Machines* — marking a significant milestone in industrial laser safety regulation. The standard, published on 28 August 2026, is the first of its kind globally to address safety requirements specifically for handheld and hand-operated laser processing machinery, a category of equipment that has seen rapid adoption across heavy industries including shipbuilding, offshore fabrication, and marine repair. According to PR Newswire, Foshan-based HSG Laser contributed to the standard's development as a core member of the Chinese expert group, which led the international drafting process under ISO's technical framework. The standard's development under China's leadership reflects the country's growing influence in setting global industrial safety benchmarks. ### Relevance to Maritime and Offshore Industries Handheld laser processing tools — used for cutting, cleaning, and welding applications — have become increasingly prevalent in shipyard environments and offshore maintenance operations due to their portability and precision. Prior to this standard, operators and safety managers in these sectors lacked a unified international reference for managing the specific hazards associated with hand-operated laser equipment. ISO 11553-2:2026 is expected to provide shipyards, classification societies, and equipment suppliers with a consistent framework for risk assessment, operator protection, and equipment certification. Compliance with the standard may also become a reference point for procurement specifications and insurance requirements within the maritime supply chain. ### Industry Context The publication of this standard comes amid broader industry efforts to harmonise safety regulations for advanced manufacturing technologies used in vessel construction and maintenance. As laser-based tools increasingly replace traditional grinding and sandblasting methods for hull cleaning and surface preparation, clear safety protocols are essential for protecting workers and ensuring regulatory compliance across international operations. HSG Laser stated that its participation in the ISO working group drew on operational data and engineering expertise accumulated through its industrial laser product lines. The company's involvement underscores the role that equipment manufacturers are playing in shaping the regulatory environment for emerging technologies. The full text of ISO 11553-2:2026 is available through ISO member bodies and national standards organisations.