Working with Lasers: Safety Procedures & Intensity

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around safety procedures and considerations when working with lasers, specifically focusing on low-power infrared (IR) and red lasers. Participants explore the implications of laser intensity, visibility, and safety regulations in both experimental and practical applications.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the brightness of a red laser compared to previous experiences with lower power lasers, raising concerns about safety procedures for both visible and IR lasers.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of enclosing IR lasers above 1mW due to safety regulations.
  • Concerns are raised about the lack of a blink reflex with IR lasers and the potential for ocular damage, suggesting the use of protective eyewear and safety interlocks.
  • Discussion includes the significance of power, wavelength, range, motion, and optics in assessing laser safety.
  • One participant expresses uncertainty about the safety of their setup but compares the risks to everyday activities, indicating a subjective assessment of danger.
  • Another participant shares personal experiences with laser safety and suggests consulting with a university optics professor for further advice.
  • Technical details are provided regarding the sensitivity of cameras to different wavelengths and the implications for measuring laser intensity.
  • Participants discuss the classification of lasers, noting that the 650 nm laser is classified as Class 3R and the 780 nm laser as Class 3B, each requiring specific safety measures.
  • Concerns are raised about the dangers of using lasers with optical equipment, particularly regarding back reflections and potential retinal damage.
  • One participant humorously mentions using lasers for non-serious applications, while another warns against the risks associated with electrical components in lasers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of agreement and disagreement regarding safety procedures and the classification of lasers. While some acknowledge the need for caution and specific safety measures, others present differing views on the level of risk associated with the lasers discussed.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight various safety regulations and guidelines that may apply differently based on the specific use case, laser type, and environmental factors. There is also mention of the evolving classification scheme for lasers, indicating that understanding current standards is crucial.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals working with lasers in academic or experimental settings, particularly those concerned with safety procedures and regulations related to laser use.

  • #31
Lambduh said:
This webpage has plenty of information on laser diodes.
http://www.repairfaq.org/sam/laserdps.htm
Yup, Sam is a good source for info.

There is even an entire list of schematics for diode drivers if you want to build one of your own.
http://www.repairfaq.org/sam/laserdps.htm#dpscld
It seems the OP's laser modules already include a driver circuit. He just has to supply them with 3V or 6V or whatever.
 
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  • #32
Hey guys, i don't know much about lasers but i bought a laser pen overseas and my buddy told me it was too strong and could burn things. The sticker says class III, 100mW wavelength 650. Should I be concerned?
 
  • #33
rob in rowlet said:
The sticker says class III, 100mW wavelength 650. Should I be concerned?


Class IIIb
Lasers in this class may cause damage if the beam enters the eye directly. This generally applies to lasers powered from 5–500 mW. Lasers in this category can cause permanent eye damage with exposures of 1/100th of a second or less depending on the strength of the laser. A diffuse reflection is generally not hazardous but specular reflections can be just as dangerous as direct exposures. Protective eyewear is recommended when direct beam viewing of Class IIIb lasers may occur. Lasers at the high power end of this class may also present a fire hazard and can lightly burn skin.
So yes - be concerned
 
  • #34
Welcome to Physics Forums.

Yes, you should be very careful!

Legally, you can only buy 5 mW max in the U.S.

To burn things you'd probably need a lens to focus the beam to a smaller area, but yes it should be possible.
 

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