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On 1 January 2004, a fundamental redefinition of laser classes took effect in line with EN60825-1:2003:
- Laser Class 1 was extended to include Laser Class 1M.
- Laser Class 2 was extended to include Laser Class 2M.
- Laser Class 3A was withdrawn.
- A new classification, Laser Class 3R, was added.
- Laser Class 3B remains the same.
- Laser Class 4 remains the same.
LAP lasers are assigned to the following laser classes:
Laser Class 2
These lasers are not considered hazardous if irradiation lasts for up to 0.25s. Do not deliberately look into the beam for any longer than this. This class is only
defined in the visible range.
Power output up to 1 × 10-3 W (=1mW).
Special safety measures
With Class 2 laser equipment, there is no danger to the eye assuming that it is only exposed accidentally to the laser radiation for a limited time, i.e. up to 0.25 s.
Class 2 laser equipment can therefore be used without any special safety precautions, so long as it is not necessary for users to look intentionally at the beam (if it is
being used for longer than 0.25 s) or to look repeatedly at the beam or reflected laser radiation.
Laser Class 2M
The beam is widened. In the visible range, the hazard level is the same as with Class 2. Do not look into the beam. Do not use optical aids: these may focus the beam
and be a danger to the eyes.
Power output up to 5 × 10-3 W (=5 mW) and a maximum power density of 25W/m2.
Special safety measures
The same safety requirements apply as for laser class 2, but the user must also ensure that no optical instruments are used to observe the laser beam that would reduce
the diameter of the beam.
Laser Class 3R
Class 3R laser equipment, like Class 3B, is potentially hazardous to the eyes. The risk of damage to the eye can be reduced by restricting the accessible emission
limit (AEL) in visible wavelengths to five times the AEL for Class 2 and by restricting the AEL in all other wavelengths to five times the AEL for Class 1.
Power output up to 5 × 10-3 W (=5 mW).
Special safety measures
When in use, the beam must be terminated at the end of an appropriate path. Avoid unintentional reflection. A laser safety officer is not required for laser systems with
an emission in the visible wavelength range. When working in visible wavelengths, there is also no need to use an emission indicator, Interlock or key switch to lock the system.
Class 3R laser equipment, like Class 3B, is potentially hazardous to the eyes. However, there are no special requirements for eye protection (i.e. laser protective goggles) or
protective clothing, due to the fact that the power output is limited to five times the accessible emission limit for class 2. Operators and maintenance personnel must be trained
in working with laser equipment.
Laser Class 3B
Medium-power laser systems. Danger to the eyes and potentially also to the skin. Do not allow yourself to be exposed to the beam. Diffuse scattered radiation at a
minimum observation distance of 13cm and a maximum observation time of 10s is not hazardous. There is a possible risk of fire if the beam encounters flammable materials.
Power output up to 500 mW.
Special safety measures
When setting up the equipment or working in the laser area, suitable personal protection must be used (laser protective goggles, also protective gloves if necessary).
The laser area must also be identified using appropriate warning signs.
Laser equipment must be guarded against unauthorised use, e.g. by using a key switch or similar mechanism. A clearly visible visual indicator, e.g. ‘Laser in operation’,
must be used to show when the laser is in operation. The laser beam must also be restricted 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 given to the relevant professional organisation and the occupational health and safety authorities before the
laser is used for the first time. In Germany, training courses in laser safety are provided by the TÜV, professional associations and similar organisations.
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