CLASSIFICATION OF LASERS:
According to the 60825-1 standard (NF, EU and IEC), laser devices are classified into the following categories: 1, 1M, 2, 2M, 3R, 3B, 4
DID YOU KNOW:
The class of a laser is the first information given on the danger of a laser. This information is easily accessible because it is mentioned directly on the laser device as well as on its user manual. This is a regulatory and normative obligation for the manufacturer.
The concept of class can apply both to a laser device and to emitted radiation.
These classes come from the NF EN 60825-1 standard and are defined according to the maximum illumination level of the laser source, also called the accessible emission limit (AEL). The Standard has an annex: Annex C, which presents the potential hazards associated with the classes.
The notion of "safe" is linked to the absence of injury. However, these beams can cause intense glare.
Generally, the following precautionary principle applies: Do not look directly into any light source for prolonged periods.
LASER CLASS 1
( US FDA Classification : CLASS I )
The laser is safe under all conditions of normal use.
Safety measure:
No safety measures are necessary. Safe during use, including direct vision over a long period, even when using an optical observation instrument.
LASER CLASS 2
( US FDA Classification : CLASS II )
These lasers are not considered dangerous if direct exposure does not last more than 0.25 s. Do not deliberately look into the beam for a longer period. This class is only defined in the visible range: from 400 to 700nm wavelength with a maximum power of 1mW (1milliWatt).
Safety measure:
Class 2 laser equipment does not pose a hazard to the eyes, provided that they are only exposed to the laser radiation accidentally for a limited time, e.g. max. 0.25 s mean eye reflex time. Class 2 laser equipment can therefore be used without special safety precautions, as long as users do not intentionally look into the beam (if used for more than 0.25 s) or repeatedly observe the beam or the reflected laser radiation in its entirety.
LASER CLASS 2M
( US FDA Classification : CLASS II , no special FDA Class )
The beam is widened. In the visible range 400 -700nm with a maximum output power of 5mW (5 milliWatts), the risk level is the same as for class 2. Do not stare into the beam. Do not use optical aids: they can concentrate the beam and endanger the eyes. The same safety requirements as for laser class 2 apply, but the user must also ensure that no optical instruments that would reduce the beam diameter are used to observe the laser beam.
Safety measure:
Short-term harmless, eye injury possible if viewed through optical instrument: viewing the beam through an optical instrument may be dangerous.
The letter “M” comes from “Magnifying optimal viewing instruments ” in English,
meaning “magnifying optical observation instruments”.
LASER CLASS 3R
( US FDA Classification : CLASS IIIa )
Class 3R laser equipment, like Class 3B, is potentially hazardous to the eyes. The risk of eye damage can be reduced by restricting the accessible emission limit (AEL) for visible wavelengths to five times the AEL for Class 2, or 5mW (and by restricting the AEL in all other wavelengths to five times the AEL for Class 1.).
Safety measure:
During use, the beam must terminate at the end of a suitable path. Avoid any unintentional reflections. Class 3R laser equipment, just like Class 3B, is potentially hazardous to the eyes. However, there are no special requirements for eye protection (e.g. laser safety glasses) or protective clothing, as the output power is limited to five times the accessible emission limit for Class 2 (i.e. 5mW). Operators and maintenance personnel must be trained in working with laser equipment.
The letter "R" comes from the expression "reduced requirements".
LASER CLASS 3 B
( US FDA Classification : CLASS IIIb )
Medium-power laser systems. Danger to eyes and possibly to skin. Avoid exposure to the beam. Scattered radiation is not dangerous at a minimum viewing distance of 13 cm and for a maximum viewing time of 10 s. There is a possible fire hazard if the beam crosses flammable materials. Output power up to 500 mW.
Safety measure:
When setting up equipment or working in the laser area, suitable personal protective equipment (laser safety goggles and, if necessary, protective gloves) must be used. The laser area must also be marked with appropriate warning signs. The laser equipment must be secured against unauthorised use, e.g. by means of a key switch or similar mechanism. A clearly visible visual indicator, e.g. “Laser on”, must be used to signal that the laser is in operation. The laser beam must also be limited to the necessary working area. There must be no reflective surfaces in this area. A laser safety officer must be appointed and notification must be sent to the relevant professional organisation and the competent occupational health and safety authorities before the laser is used for the first time. Laser safety training courses are offered by professional associations and certification bodies.
LASER CLASS 4
( US FDA Classification : CLASS IV )
Dangerous direct vision, dangerous skin exposure, dangerous diffuse reflection and significant fire hazard even for diffuse reflection.
Lasers used in engraving and cutting applications of various materials.
Safety measure:
No direct or indirect contact of the beam is permitted.
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