Laser pointer safety
A laser pointer is a powerful tool: handy for presentations, stargazing, cats and long-distance work, but only if you use it responsibly. Please read these tips before using your laser for the first time.
The golden rules
- Never in the eyes. Never look into the beam and never point it at people or animals, not even as a joke. A powerful laser can cause permanent eye damage in a fraction of a second.
- Never at vehicles, aircraft or helicopters. A pilot or driver can be dazzled by it. This is extremely dangerous and a criminal offence everywhere.
- Watch out for reflective surfaces. Glass, mirrors, water and metal can reflect the beam back into your own eyes or those of others.
- Not a toy. Keep lasers out of the reach of children. You can only order if you are 18 or over.
- Switch it off when you are not using it and use the key lock or safety interlock if your laser has one.
Laser classes at a glance
Lasers are divided into classes according to the IEC/EN 60825-1 standard. The higher the class, the greater the risk.
| Class | What does it mean? |
|---|---|
| Class 1 and 2 | Low power. With class 2, the natural blink reflex protects the eye during a brief, accidental glance into the beam. Deliberately staring into it is still dangerous. |
| Class 3R | Higher power. Looking directly into the beam can damage the eye. Use with care. |
| Class 3B | Direct exposure of the eye is dangerous, even briefly. Wear suitable laser safety glasses. |
| Class 4 | Very powerful. Even scattered or reflected light can be dangerous, and the beam can heat materials or set them alight. For experienced users only, always with safety glasses. |
The class and power of each laser are stated in the product description and on the product.
Safety glasses
With more powerful lasers, laser safety glasses are not a luxury. Choose glasses that match the wavelength (the colour) of your laser; ordinary sunglasses offer no protection. Even with glasses, never deliberately look into the beam.
Fire and heat
Powerful lasers can make paper, plastic, dry grass and other materials smoulder or catch fire. Never aim the beam at anything flammable and never leave a switched-on laser unattended.
Batteries and charging
- Only use the battery and charger supplied with your laser, or an equivalent good-quality type.
- Do not charge rechargeable batteries unattended or overnight, and remove them from the laser if you will not be using it for a long time.
- Never use a battery that is damaged, swollen or hot.
Rules in your country
The rules on owning, carrying and using laser pointers are not the same in every country. Before use, check what is permitted in your country and in the place where you will use it. You are responsible for using it in accordance with those rules.
Laser light in your eye?
If after exposure to a laser beam you notice a spot in your vision, blurred vision or pain, see a GP or an eye specialist straight away.