Four major laser classes (I to IV), including three subclasses (IIa, IIIa and IIIb), of lasers--ranging from those that pose no known hazard to those that pose serious danger if used improperly. The higher the class, the more powerful the laser is.
(Note: This is the old system, ANSI Z136.1)
Class I
Laser usually contained within the product and considered non- hazardous.
- Laser printers
- CD players
- DVD players
Class II, IIa
Visible laser or laser system that cannot cause eye damage unless viewed directly for an extended period of time, or with magnifiers, binoculars, or telescopes.
- Bar code scanners
Class IIIa, IIIb
Laser that normally does not present a risk of injury if viewed momentarily with an unaided eye, but may present a greater risk if viewed using magnifiers, binoculars, or telescopes. Laser can cause eye damage if viewed directly
- Laser pointers
- Laser light shows
- Industrial lasers
- Research lasers
Class IV
Laser may cause severe eye injury with short duration exposure to the direct or reflected beam. May also cause severe skin damage and present a fire hazard.
- Laser light shows
- Industrial lasers
- Research lasers
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