Class 3 Laser Pointer Safety Information

Have you ever heard about laser pointers? Are you aware of its different type of classes? A laser pointer is a simple yet small handheld device charged using a battery and also emits a beam of visible light through a laser diode. A low-powered laser beam of visible light is mainly used to highlight something or someone. The power capacity of each laser pointer is different. Depending on the powerful energy of the beam and wavelength of the emitted radiation, laser pointers are divided into several classes ranging from class 1 to Class 3 Laser Pointer. Each laser class serves a specific purpose.

Laser pointers are classified on various physical parameters, such as wavelength, duration of exposure, power, etc. In addition to such physical parameters, the classification of laser also depends on certain other factors, such as:

laser's potential for penetrating immediate injury to the eye or skin

potential for causing fires from direct exposure to the beam

potential for causing harms from reflections from diffuse reflective surfaces.

A Class 1 laser pointer is considered secure based upon medical knowledge. This class includes all such laser systems which cannot emit radiation above the exposure limit. Hence, they do not cause any injury to the eye. A visible laser beam of light is emitted by Class 2 laser systems. Class 3 laser pointer is determined under the category of those lasers that usually would not cause any injury if viewed instantly for a short while with the unaided eye. A Class 3 laser system can emit light beam of any wavelength, but it cannot cause a diffuse reflection hazard unless viewed for longer duration.

Lasers having radiant power in between 1 milliwatt and 5 milliwatts are included in the category of class 3a lasers. It is true, that Class 3a lasers have an accessible output that can be handled very easily. On the other hand, class 3b lasers are those that can cause severe eye injuries if viewed directly. Class 3B lasers are considered hazardous for eye exposure. They can even heat up the skin and materials, but usually, not considered a burn hazard. The radiant power of such light beams are above 5 milliwatts, but do not exceed 500 milliwatts. Please note, a Class 3 laser pointer is not considered a serious skin hazard or a fire hazard.

Any continuous wave laser that is not included in Class 1 or Class 2, will definitely be considered under a Class 3 device. If talking about safety concerns, safety training is essential for those handling class 3 laser systems. It is also recommended to operate such device within a marked, controlled area. Use of laser protective eyewear is important while working with 3b laser systems.

There are many vendors available on the web offering class 3 laser pointer systems. So what are you waiting for? Start searching for the trusted suppliers so that you can place online orders. Make sure to choose the one that best suits your needs.

WickedLite is a handheld powerful laser pointer founded by Vin Wells, perfect for start gazing, night hiking, hunting, camping, military & astronomical purposes.