Ensuring the Safe Use of Lasers in Commercial Applications

Laser technology has become increasingly important in commercial applications but laser radiation can be hazardous to human health

Laser technology has become increasingly important in various fields, such as medicine, industry, research, and entertainment. However, laser radiation can be hazardous to human health, and its misuse can result in injuries and property damage. For this reason, it is essential to follow laser safety guidelines and standards to ensure the protection of people and the environment. The British Standard BS EN 60825 is one of the critical standards that provide guidelines for laser safety. Therefore, there is an absolute need for laser safety, interlock systems, safety cabinets, and compliance with British Standard BS EN 60825.

Why is Laser Safety Important?

Laser radiation can cause injuries to human skin and eyes, resulting in temporary or permanent damage. The severity of the injury depends on various factors, such as the wavelength, power, and exposure time. For example, exposure to high-power laser radiation can cause blindness, while low-power radiation can cause skin burns. Furthermore, laser radiation can also ignite combustible materials, leading to fires and explosions.

In addition to the risk of injuries and property damage, laser radiation can also interfere with electronic equipment and devices. For instance, laser radiation can disrupt or damage the functioning of sensors, cameras, and other electronic devices. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure the safe use of lasers to prevent accidents, injuries, and damage.

What is British Standard BS EN 60825?

BS EN 60825 is a British Standard that provides guidelines for laser safety. The standard applies to all laser products, including laser pointers, laser pens, and laser equipment used in medical, industrial, and research settings. The standard covers various aspects of laser safety, such as hazard classification, labelling, and user training. The latest version of the standard, BS EN 60825-1:2014, was published in 2014.

1. Hazard Classification within BS EN 60825

The standard classifies lasers into four hazard classes based on the potential risk of injury to human eyes and skin. The hazard classes are as follows:

Class 1 - Safe: These lasers do not emit hazardous radiation, and their output power is below the maximum permissible exposure (MPE) limit.

Class 2 - Low risk: These lasers emit visible radiation that is not harmful to human eyes if the exposure is limited to 0.25 seconds or less. However, prolonged exposure can cause eye damage.

Class 3R - Moderate risk: These lasers emit visible radiation that can cause eye damage if the exposure is prolonged. They are also hazardous if the beam is directed into the eyes through an optical instrument, such as a telescope or microscope.

Class 4 - High risk: These lasers emit radiation that can cause eye and skin damage, and they pose a fire hazard. They require special precautions and protective measures to ensure safe use.

2. Labelling

The standard requires laser products to be labelled with specific information, such as the hazard class, maximum output power, and wavelength. The label must also include warning symbols and instructions for safe use and handling. The label must be easily visible and readable, and it must be attached to the laser product or its packaging.

3. Laser Safety Training

The standard requires laser users to receive appropriate training on laser safety and handling. The training should cover topics such as the hazards of laser radiation, safe operating procedures, and emergency response procedures. The training should also address the specific hazards and precautions associated with the laser product being used. The standard recommends that the training be documented and periodically reviewed.

Interlock Systems

Interlock systems are an essential component of laser safety measures. They are designed to prevent the laser from operating if specific safety conditions are not met. Interlock systems can be mechanical or electrical, and they can be built into the laser product or the laser control system.

Mechanical interlock systems use physical barriers, such as doors or covers, to prevent access to the laser beam. For example, a laser safety cabinet may have a mechanical interlock that prevents the laser from operating if the cabinet door is open. This ensures that the laser beam is confined to the cabinet and does not pose a risk to people or property.

Electrical interlock systems use sensors and switches to detect safety hazards and prevent the laser from operating if those hazards are present. For example, an electrical interlock may detect if the laser is not properly aligned or if the cooling system is not functioning correctly. If these safety conditions are not met, the electrical interlock will prevent the laser from operating.

Interlock systems are essential for ensuring the safe operation of laser systems, particularly in high-power applications. They provide an additional layer of safety to prevent accidents and injuries. Interlock systems can also be customised to suit specific applications and safety requirements. For example, some laser systems may require multiple interlock systems to ensure complete safety.

Interlock systems are a critical safety feature in laser systems. They can prevent the laser from operating if safety conditions are not met, such as when a safety barrier is open or when the laser is not properly aligned. Interlock systems provide an additional layer of safety to prevent accidents and injuries, and they can be customised to suit specific applications and safety requirements.

Laser Safety cabinets

Laser safety cabinets are specialised enclosures designed to provide a safe environment for laser systems. They are designed to contain laser radiation and prevent it from escaping into the surrounding area. Laser safety cabinets are typically used for high-power laser systems or for systems that pose a high risk of injury or damage.

Felix works as a laser development engineer for Laser Optical Engineering Ltd. We specialise in the development of bespoke laser based imaging products and services in the aerospace, maritime and nuclear industries