Class 1 laser pointer
Depending on the wavelength: approx. 39 µW (blue) to approx. 0.39 mW (red), the accessible laser radiation is harmless under reasonably foreseeable conditions and does not cause eye damage even after prolonged exposure. Even the use of magnifying glasses, lenses, telescopes and other optical means does not work.
Application: Laser Pointer, CD player, scanner
Class 1M: The accessible laser radiation range is 302.5 nm to 4000 nm. The beam emitted by the laser is divergent or widened (ie it is not “spotted”). As long as the beam cross-section is not reduced by optical instruments (rays, focusing), the accessible radiation is harmless to the eye. Area of application: Barcode / barcode reader for supermarket cashiers.
Level 1C: especially for medical lasers (cosmetic applications). No additional protective equipment is required.
Technical measures ensure that the laser can only emit when it comes into contact with skin or tissue and that radiation exposure is reduced to level 1. Scope of application: hair removal laser.
Class 2 laser pointer
GZS = 1 mW continuous wave laser, accessible laser radiation in the visible light range (400 nm-700 nm). Short-term exposure (up to 0.25 seconds) is not harmful to the eyes. Area of application: Rechargeable Laser Pointer, laser level, grid
Class 2M: The accessible laser radiation is in the visible light range (400 nm-700 nm). The beam emitted by the laser diverges or expands (ie, it is not “spotted”). As long as the beam cross-section is not reduced by optical instruments (blasting, focusing), there is a risk as with class 2 lasers. The use of optical detection instruments can cause similar hazards as 3R or 3B lasers. Area of application: the so-called “pattern laser”, which is used, for example, to project graphics onto the projection surface.
Class 3 laser pointer
GZS = 5 mW, for continuous wave lasers in the visible range, 5 x GZS class 1 for other wavelengths.
Class 3R: The wavelength range of the accessible laser radiation is 302.5 nm to 106 nm, which is dangerous for the eyes. Class 3R laser devices are potentially dangerous, as is Class 3B laser devices. By limiting the GZS value to five times the level 2 limit value, the risk of eye damage can be reduced.
Used for range: leveling high powered laser, aiming laser (e.g. for military purposes).
Class 3B: Accessible radiation is dangerous to the eyes and normally dangerous to the skin (e.g. if it exceeds the MZB).
Area of application: performance and disco lasers, lasers for cosmetic applications
Class 4 laser pointer
GZS> 500 milliwatt, green light laser pointer. Accessible laser radiation is very dangerous to the eyes and skin. Diffuse reflection of the beam can also be dangerous. Direct or reflected rays cause immediate damage. Laser radiation can cause fire and explosion hazards.
Area of application: Laser cutting or welding systems, research lasers, medical application lasers.
Wallis Lucy