Laser Pointer Safety

Read the caution or warning label before buying a laser pointer.

Laser pointers are often used for business presentations or in the classroom by instructors. They are widely available for purchase by adults and children without any restrictions. There are health concerns because some lasers for sale are strong enough to cause eye injury. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, many laser pointers are not labeled adequately.

Classifications

According to Princeton University, laser pointers are available in two main classes in the United States. The class 2 pointers emit a laser beam of no more than 1 milliwatt (mW) of power, with about 400 nanometer (nm) of radiation. Normal eye blinking provides protection at this low level. Class 3 pointers produce 5 mW of power and approximately 690 nm of radiation. Any laser with output above these levels should not be purchased as permanent eye damage can occur.

Effects

Potential health hazards exist when the eyes are exposed to the laser light. Strong lasers can permanently damage the retina. Most laser pointers don't have the power to cause permanent damage to the retina. Low-level exposure can cause an afterimage, or spots in the vision field although it typically only lasts a few minutes. Flash blindness is similar to the effect of seeing a flashbulb go off. Glare is a temporary loss of vision or reduced visibility, similar to seeing bright headlights.

Laser Use Caution

Laser pointers only should be used for intended purposes and never directed to someone's eyes. Don't ever look directly into a laser pointer. Don't point lasers toward a reflective surface such as a mirror. Don't look at a laser pointer with devices like microscopes or binoculars. Children should not use laser pointers without careful adult supervision.

Purchase Requirements

Although some local governments have established regulations for the sale of laser pointers--typically, the buyer must be 18 years old--there aren't any federal restrictions on their purchase in the United States.

FDA Warning

The FDA warns parents as well as school officials of the potential for eye damage from laser pointers. According to the FDA, "The light energy that pointers can aim into the eye can be more damaging than staring directly into the sun. Federal law requires a warning on the product label about this potential hazard to the eyes."

"These laser pointers are not toys," the FDA states. "Parents should treat them with appropriate care."

Labeling

Because buying a laser pointer is easy, the consumer must evaluate the risk involved. Every laser pointers should have a danger or caution label. If there isn't a label in place, do not buy the product, as it may be too strong. The label states either, "DANGER: Laser Radiation" for Class 3a laser pointers or "CAUTION: Laser Radiation" for Class 2 laser pointers.

References

• Princeton University: Safety Recommendations for Laser Pointers
• Health Physics Society: Can I Safely Use a Laser Pointer?
• FDA: Illuminating Facts About Laser Pointers