Readers who operate laser light shows, military lasers, free-space laser communication devices or lasers for outdoor research should note that the Laser Institute of America has published the new American National Standards Institute Z136.6 standard for safe use of lasers outdoors. LIA says the standard covers all those who use lasers outdoors, including those granted a variance or exception under the US Federal Laser Product Performance Standard. The standard discusses control measures, inadvertent hazards, laser safety programs, eye and skin exposure criteria and instrumentation.