Independent services using Class 3B/4 laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) source equipment

What are Class 3B/4 lasers and Intense Pulsed Light sources? 

Class 3B/4 lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL) sources can be used in a variety of services and for a variety of purposes. Examples of their use include:

• Medical treatment in acute hospitals
• Dental treatment
• Refractive eye surgery (known as ‘laser’ eye surgery)
• Dermatological conditions
• Minimal or non-invasive cosmetic treatments (which are often carried out by beauticians or healthcare professionals), such as hair removal, tattoo removal and the treatment of birthmarks or other skin blemishes

Class 3B/4 lasers and intense pulsed light are powerful devices which, if faulty or used incorrectly, have the potential to cause serious injury to those operating them, recipients of the treatment and other persons in the vicinity, and to ignite flammable materials. 

This is why it is important that services are using these devices safely and are registered with us as appropriate. 

How we inspect

We look at how independent healthcare services using Class 3B/4 laser and IPL source equipment:

• Meet the National Minimum Standards for Independent Health Care Services in Wales
• Comply with the Care Standards Act 2000
• Comply with the Independent Health Care (Wales) Regulations 2011

Our inspections of independent healthcare services using Class 3B/4 laser and IPL source equipment are usually announced. Services usually receive up to twelve weeks’ notice of an inspection.

Our inspections are carried out by at least one HIW inspector. 

The findings from our inspections are published to our website.

The following document provides guidance about what we look at during an inspection. If you would like a copy of our inspection workbook please contact HIW.Inspections@gov.wales quoting which inspection type of workbook you require.