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@MISC{_aboutlaser,
author = {},
title = {About Laser Pointers Recommendations for Laser Pointer Safety and Selection},
year = {}
}
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Abstract
Laser pointers are completely safe when properly used as a visual or instructional aid. However, they can cause serious eye damage when used improperly. There have been enough documented injuries from laser pointers to trigger a warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA and Safety Notification). Before deciding to use a laser pointer, presenters are reminded to consider alternate methods of calling attention to specific items. Most presentation software packages offer screen pointer options with the same features, but without the laser hazard. Selecting a Safe Laser Pointer 1) Choose low power lasers (Class 2 or 3R, formerly 3a) Whenever possible, select a Class 2 laser pointer because of the lower risk of eye damage. If a more powerful laser is required, presenters may use a Class 3R laser with the understanding that greater responsibility and care are required. Laser devices with other laser classes are inappropriate for use as a laser pointer (see Identifying Laser Characteristics below). 2) Choose red-orange lasers (633 to 650 nm wavelength, choose closer to 635 nm) Early diode laser pointers were dark red (670 nm wavelength) and difficult to see due to the eye’s lower response to red. Newer red-orange lasers are significantly brighter than their dark red predecessors using the same or even less power. See below for available products. Green and blue laser pointers are available, however each has serious drawbacks 1. Initially, green will appear brighter than red. However, green may actually be too bright and has been found to leave a distracting after-image on the retina, making it difficult to concentrate on the presentation. Safety concerns have been raised about photo-biological effects from blue light laser pointers (400-500 nm) and they should be avoided. 3) On/Off Switch Ensure that the on switch is a momentary contact type that is designed to shut off the pointer when released. Use of a laser pointed with a locking device to keep the laser beam on is prohibited. Each label includes: the starburst insignia, laser classification, maximum
Keyphrases
laser pointer laser pointer recommendation laser pointer safety eye damage switch ensure safety concern laser hazard specific item choose red-orange laser laser class drug administration momentary contact type serious drawback blue light laser pointer powerful laser blue laser pointer safety notification red-orange laser serious eye damage early diode laser pointer dark red predecessor screen pointer option starburst insignia photo-biological effect laser beam alternate method laser device safe laser pointer instructional aid presentation software package nm wavelength 400-500 nm available product identifying laser characteristic choose low power laser documented injury
