On May 26, 2026, the Hub of Knowledge in Orofacial Laserology, directed by Prof. Dr. Sajee Sattayut and supported by the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT) for the fiscal year 2026, held its first laser safety audit via a hybrid system at the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic, Faculty of Dentistry, Khon Kaen University.
This audit is part of the Hub's broader mission to establish and promote laser safety standards in dentistry. A newly developed audit checklist was used for the first time to assess the readiness of clinic facilities, equipment, personnel, and operational procedures for laser safety practice. Expert consultants from several institutions observed the process and provided recommendations to further refine the checklist into a practical auditing guide for network members.The audit brought together expert consultants in dental laser use and safety, including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aroonwan Lam-Ubol and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Patrayu Taebunpakul , Faculty of Dentistry, Srinakharinwirot University; Lect. Dr. Suwat Tanya from the Faculty of Dentistry, Chiang Mai University; Lect. Dr. Pongsatorn Thachapramuk from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mahasarakham University; Dr. Vimolkarn Damrongratnuwong from MedPark Hospital; and Ms. Maliwan Eberharter from Digital Dental Center, Thonburi Bamrungmuang Hospital.
In addition, Assoc. Prof. Waraporn Suwannarong, Assistant Dean for Dental Hospital Quality Development, and Asst. Prof. Dr. Saowalak Limmonthon, head of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Khon Kaen University, served as an observer and advisor, providing recommendations throughout the process.
Mr. Surachet Nochalad, Laser Safety Officer, participated as the staff member under review during this audit. His involvement provided firsthand insight into laser safety procedures in a clinical setting, and his contribution will be instrumental in developing an audit framework grounded in real-world practice.
This first audit represents a significant step forward for the Hub of Knowledge in Orofacial Laserology in fostering collaboration among dental laser specialists and safety experts across its networks. The findings and recommendations gathered will serve as a foundation for developing clear and practical guidelines for safe dental laser practice that reflect real clinical conditions, and contribute to raising laser safety standards across the network in a systematic and sustainable manner.
