Do I Need a Laser Protection Adviser for My London Clinic?

Written By Samantha Munoz

If you run a laser or IPL clinic in London, you may be unsure whether you legally need a Laser Protection Adviser (LPA) — especially if you already have training or experience.

This article explains when an LPA is required, why London councils often expect one, and how an LPA helps clinics meet licensing and inspection requirements.

For a full inspection checklist, see our main guide:
👉 Laser Protection Adviser London: Inspection-Ready Checklist for Clinics

What is a Laser Protection Adviser?

A Laser Protection Adviser is a competent person with specialist knowledge of laser and IPL safety. Their role is to:

  • assess laser hazards

  • reduce risks to staff and clients

  • produce clear safety documentation

  • support legal and licensing compliance

LPAs are commonly involved in both medical and aesthetic laser environments.

Is an LPA a legal requirement in London?

There is no single national rule that says “every clinic must appoint an LPA”.
However, in practice:

  • London councils frequently expect one

  • insurers often require LPA-led documentation

  • inspections commonly ask who provides laser safety advice

For this reason, most London clinics appoint an LPA to demonstrate they are using a competent person for laser safety.

Situations where London clinics usually need an LPA

You are very likely to need LPA support if you:

  • are opening a new clinic

  • are applying for or renewing a special treatments licence

  • have purchased a new laser or IPL device

  • have changed rooms or clinic layout

  • are offering higher-risk laser treatments

  • have been asked for additional safety evidence by the council

What councils usually expect to see

London boroughs may word things differently, but they often ask for:

  • a laser or IPL risk assessment

  • Local Rules written for your clinic

  • evidence of correct protective eyewear

  • staff training and competency records

  • safe systems of work

These documents are usually produced or reviewed by an LPA.

Can I do this myself?

Some clinic owners have strong experience, but many struggle because:

  • regulations and guidance are complex

  • councils expect formal documentation

  • generic templates are often rejected

  • eyewear selection is frequently misunderstood

An LPA provides independent, professional evidence that your clinic has assessed and controlled laser risks properly.

What happens if I don’t have an LPA?

Without clear LPA-level input, clinics may experience:

  • delays to licence approval

  • requests for additional paperwork

  • failed or postponed inspections

  • insurance difficulties

Using an LPA early often saves time and stress later.

How an LPA helps London clinics specifically

A London-experienced LPA understands:

  • borough licensing expectations

  • common inspection questions

  • practical solutions for small rooms

  • how to present documents clearly

This makes inspections smoother and easier to manage.

What next?

If you operate a laser or IPL clinic in London, appointing a Laser Protection Adviser is one of the most effective ways to show your clinic is safe, professional and inspection-ready.

For a full breakdown of what councils check and how to prepare, read our main guide:
👉 Laser Protection Adviser London: Inspection-Ready Checklist for Clinics

Or contact us here:
👉 https://www.laserprotectionadvisers.co.uk/contact

Samantha Munoz
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Laser Protection Adviser London: Inspection-Ready Checklist for Laser & IPL Clinics (2026)