Continuous-wave lasers cannot exceed 0.5 watts if their wavelength is between 315 nm and the far infrared.To get an idea of the maximum emissions permitted for class 3B lasers, take a look at the following accessible emission limits (AEL): Only diffuse reflections are safe with class 3B lasers. They may cause eye injuries or small burns on the skin. If you’re using the old classification system, you’ll find that class IIIa lasers (or class 3a) are essentially the same.ĭirect contact with the laser beam or specular reflections (also known as mirror-like reflections) of 3B lasers must be avoided. Since exposure to the beam is low risk but potentially hazardous, class 3R laser products must be identified with appropriate warning labels (this is also true with higher laser classes). But generally speaking, a brief eye exposure won’t harm your eyes (the acceptable exposure time varies according to the wavelength). Eye injuries may occur if you directly view the beam-especially when using optical instruments. Class 3R LasersĬlass 3R laser systems like laser pointers and laser scanners pose a higher safety risk than previous classes, but they’re still considered safe when handled carefully. Even the shortest exposure time can be harmful. But if you view the beam using an optical instrument (even accidentally), the blink reflex won’t be enough to prevent eye injuries. As with class 2 lasers, the blink reflex will protect your eyes from unmagnified beams. In the old classification system, class IIa lasers are a subclass that are only harmful if the exposure duration exceeds 1000 seconds Class 2M LasersĬlass 2M lasers are generally safe. This is important because the blink reflex as well as other aversion responses (like head movements) won’t be triggered otherwise.Ĭlass 2 lasers are typically limited to 1 mW for continuous-wave lasers (but it could be more in certain contexts). Lasers can only be classified as class 2 if their laser light is visible. It can only cause eye injuries if you intentionally stare at it. As long as you’re not fighting your instincts, the laser beam is safe for viewing. The blink reflex normally prevents viewing dangerous (and visible) wavelengths for longer than 0.25 seconds. Laser diodes, fiber communication systems, and laser speed meters are class 1M lasers. Because the beam is amplified, it exceeds the maximum permissible exposure (which is the maximum power density considered safe for viewing). Viewing their magnified beam with optical instruments like binoculars may be hazardous (this excludes prescription glasses). So what differentiates them from class 1 lasers? As such, they’re considered class 1 laser products and you don’t need to take precautions during normal operations and as long as they’re not damaged.Ĭlass 1M lasers (or, class 1 “magnified”) are much like class 1 lasers since they’re generally safe for viewing with the naked eye. For example, laser printers use class 4 lasers enclosed in the printer. Industrial marking systems of higher classes (such as class 3 or 4) are often reduced to class 1 by safely enclosing them (this is called an embedded laser). These lasers usually possess a very low output power (a few microwatts). Class 1 LasersĬlass-1 lasers are safe for the eyes in all operations even for a long time and with optical instruments. In the United States, ANSI Z136.1 (the old system) is still used and is very similar. But first, what are the different laser classes? And what distinguishes one class from another?įor simplicity’s sake, we’ll focus on the revised laser classification system specified in the IEC 60825-1 international standard. In this article, we’ll go over the different laser standards and laser hazards. This is why governmental and international organizations have put in place strict standards separating laser systems into safety classes according to their ability to cause hazards.ĭo you need an integrated machine or an OEM system?īefore we go on, what’s a laser? The term was coined in 1959 by Gordon Gould, an American physicist, and the word itself is an acronym for “light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation.” Through optical amplification, laser systems produce highly concentrated light beams that are rich in energy. Some lasers are powerful enough to damage your skin, cause serious eye injuries, and set your workplace on fire. Laser technology offers a wide range of possibilities, ranging from harmless laser pointers to extremely powerful laser marking and cleaning systems.
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