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Laser Classifications and Safety Requirements

Laser Class and Description		Safety Requirements

Class 1
Exempt Lasers cannot emit levels of radiation above the Maximum Permissible Exposure under any exposure condition inherent to the design of the laser.		There are no specific safety requirements for operating Class I lasers.

Class 2
Low-power visible continuous wave lasers can only emit visible radiation of sufficiently low power. Precautions for Class II lasers prohibit continuous focus into a direct beam or a beam reflected from a mirror-like surface into a person's eye.		Warning signs are not requiredwhen operating Class II lasers.

Class 3A
Medium-Power Lasers are potentially hazardous if the direct beam or a reflected beam is intercepted by the unprotected eye. Note: Most laser pointers are Class 3A lasers. • Laser pointers are NOT toys. Eye damage has been caused by laser pointers. Serious traffic accidents have been caused by laser pointers. It is considered assault if police officers are targeted with a laser pointer. • Do not point the laser beam at the audience at any time when using a laser pointer during a presentation.		Do NOT point beam at room entrances! Review need for eye protection Establish NHZ when operating a laser outdoors

Class 3B
The operation of Class 3B lasers requires that authorized personnel have access exclusively. For details on Class 3B lasers, see the Program Requirements to the right. (Class 3B laser radiation will cause injury upon direct viewing of the beam and specular reflections. The power output of Class 3B lasers is 5–500 mW continuous wave (cw), or less than 10 J/cm² for a 1/4-second pulsed system. The specific control measures for Class 3b lasers described in this chapter must be implemented.)		Baseline Eye Exam An Activiety Hazard Document (AHD) is required. Authorized, trained operators Access controls Beam stop behind lens prevents transmitted light. Confining beams to table with sheet metal beam stops.

Class 4
Class 4 lasers may cause skin injury and represent a potential fire hazard. The operation of Class 4 lasers requires the entire beam path be controlled. The laser shall be operated in designated areas where safety interlocks may be used to prevent unexpected entry into the controlled area. Access shall be limited to persons wearing laser protection eyewear. Class 4 lasers include all lasers with power levels greater than 500 mW cw or greater than 10 J/cm² for a 1/4-second pulsed system. They pose eye hazards, skin hazards, and fire hazards. Viewing the beam, specular reflections, or exposure to diffuse reflections can cause eye and skin injuries.		AHD is required. Beam stops Eyewear Minimize flammable materials in area Safety Procedure (SP) always needed
Note: If a Class 3B or 4 laser is enclosed to make it a Class 1 System: Enclosure cannot allow light to escape Enclosure interlocks to prevent light escaping when opened Service panels which are: interlocked, or an be opened only with unusual tool Training required ALS 280 or EHS 280 Hazards and controls for specific system Authorized operator