Core of Knowledge Training


Core of Knowledge is the official and essential training for professional users of Laser and Light treatments in the medical and aesthetics industry.  It is a basic legal requirement for all technicians to achieve this certification referred to in the MHRA document:.  But how can you be sure you will be receiving the best possible training.  From laser technician training to laser safety training, at MATA courses we will provide you with the gold standard of Core of Knowledge for your certification and business practice.

Essentially, Core of Knowledge covers 20 topics that all laser/light users are expected to know – ranging from fundamentals of laser and light devices, through to risk assessment and the roles of Laser Protection Advisers (LPA) and Supervisors. The Core of Knowledge training is applicable to many treatments from laser hair removal, laser tattoo removal, laser skin rejuvenation, laser for vascular, laser for pigmentation treatments and more.  The course will provide a solid foundation in the safe and effective use of laser and IPL machines, and educates on how light interacts with skin to produce specific biological effects, and hazards/risks that may occur and how to deal with them.

The syllabus sets out the minimum training for laser/light protection supervisors, authorised users and assisting staff using lasers (Class 3R, 3B and 4) and intense light source devices.  It is expected that staff should attend refresher Core of Knowledge courses at least every five years. If you are licenced by your Local Authority – they will expect you to have evidence of recent Core of Knowledge training.

The MHRA document states that a Core of Knowledge course should be delivered by persons who have a high level of knowledge and understanding of different optical radiation devices systems, optical radiation safety, and the hazards associated with the equipment, e.g. a certified LPA.

Our Core of Knowledge and Laser Protection Supervisor (LPS) training is available as cost effective, half- or full-day courses, which can be tailored for specific laser/ILS disciplines, for example:

  • Aesthetic laser/light applications
  • Hospital Core of Knowledge and Laser Protection Supervisor (LPS) training, e.g. physiotherapy, ophthalmology, dermatology, urology, etc.

Our Customised Courses
In-house, customised courses can be the most efficient and cost effective way to get exactly the training you need. Our teaching and presentation materials can be tailored to your equipment and application, and can include practical or group exercises.  We offer practical assessments to provide evidence of your learning.

Course Content:

  • Characteristics of Laser and IPL Radiation
  • Radiation generation
  • Eye physiology and skin exposure
  • Skin tissue interaction for Laser & IPL radiation
  • Precautions to keep exposure below maximum permitted levels
  • Reflection and absorption hazards
  • Hazards to patient
  • Laser and IPL safety management
  • Risk assessments
  • Incidental hazards
  • Relevant standards
  • Quality Assurance
  • Machinery

This Laser and IPL Core of Knowledge safety training course does not address treatment protocols or provide clinical training for laser treatments, but is a requirement before undertaking a MATA Laser and Light course to ensure you are able to carry out treatments safely.

Who Should Attend?

Our Core of Knowledge training courses for Laser and Light are open to aestheticians and beauty therapists, tattooists who wish to carry out laser tattoo removal treatments, registered healthcare professionals i.e. doctors, dentists and nurse prescribers and others who may be operating Laser and Light machinery.  Courses are suitable for new and existing practitioners seeking to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills in order to offer patients the highest standards of care and treatment.

Ready To Enrol?

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