Class 4 Lasers are dangerous. Here’s why you should never use them.

What exactly do we mean by Class 4?

Laser classes refers to the level of danger they present to an operator. A Class 4 laser is one that offers no protection whatsoever from laser radiation, meaning the operator must take mitigating steps themselves (such as wearing specliased eye protection).

Conversely, class 2 lasers are completely enclosed during operation, making them safe to use 24/7 with no eye protection needed. If the interlocks are lifted or moved during marking, the laser will automatically switch itself off.

How does the laser radiation affect your health?

“Visible and near-infrared (400 – 1400 nanometer or nm) laser light pose a critical hazard on the retina.

Since the tissue structures of the retina are unable to undergo any repair, lesions caused by the focusing of visible or near-infrared light on the retina may be permanent.“

This excerpt from an analysis by UC San Diego explains the issue at hand. Laser radiation is severely damaging to the tissue of your eyes, and any direct or even indirect exposure can cause permanent eye damage.

Even if you are wearing eye protection, anyone else in the room can be affected – even just by walking into the room by mistake.

Are some lasers worse than others?

Any laser radiation of 1400nm in wavelength or lower is incredibly dangerous. This includes fiber lasers, green lasers, diode lasers and, by far the worst for your eyes: UV.

UV laser radiation actually causes denaturing of the proteins in your eyes, which is a chemical process that likely results in cell death. The process by which egg whites change from clear and liquid to white and solid is an example of denaturing.

UV is extremely dangerous to use in Class 4 for any period of time. A laser with a wavelength of less than 1400nm should only ever be used in an enclosed, Class 2 system.

What are the risks to my business if I install one?

Every operator of the laser system will need thorough training and understanding of the implications of laser safety. They will need to be aware of the risks and be given equipment to mitigate them.

Additionally, you must have a designated Laser Safety Officer (LSO) who must be on site at all times when the laser is in use. Failure to comply could result in a legal case being brought against you for violating health and safety.

If your LSO was not present while the laser machine was in operation, your insurance may also be void for failing to provide adequate safety resources.

All Lotus systems are fully enclosed, Class 2 machines designed for continuous safe operations. These can be placed in any workshop or even in public places such as brand activations with no concerns regarding the safety of your team or your customers.