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

## New Global Laser Safety Standard Carries Implications for Maritime Fabrication and Repair 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 the establishment of the world's first internationally recognised safety standard for handheld laser processing equipment. The standard was published on 28 August 2026 and was developed under Chinese technical leadership, with Foshan-based HSG Laser serving as a core member of the Chinese expert group that contributed to the drafting process, according to a company statement issued via PR Newswire. ### Relevance to Maritime Operations Handheld laser processing tools — used for cutting, cleaning, and welding applications — have seen growing adoption across shipbuilding yards, offshore fabrication facilities, and vessel maintenance operations in recent years. The absence of a unified international safety framework had previously created inconsistencies in how operators and facilities managed laser-related occupational hazards. The publication of ISO 11553-2:2026 is expected to provide shipyards and marine repair facilities with a clear, standardised benchmark for equipment procurement, operator training, and workplace safety compliance when deploying handheld laser systems. ### China's Role in Standards Leadership The standard's development under Chinese leadership reflects the country's expanding influence in international industrial standards bodies, particularly in advanced manufacturing technologies. HSG Laser's participation as a core contributor positions the company — and Chinese laser technology manufacturers more broadly — at the forefront of shaping global compliance requirements for a sector in which they hold significant market share. For maritime procurement and safety officers, the new standard provides a reference point when specifying laser equipment for onboard or dockside use, and may increasingly be referenced in flag state and port state regulatory frameworks as adoption grows. Industry stakeholders are advised to review the full text of ISO 11553-2:2026 through their national standards bodies to assess compliance obligations and update relevant safety management system documentation accordingly.