Laser Safety Knowledge Base

Lasers - Basic Principles

Biological
Effects

Laser Safety Standards

Lasers come in many types, but the hazards depend upon the wavelength, power or energy, pulse length and accessible beam size. To simplify the assessment of the hazards presented by the laser beam, all lasers are assigned to a hazard class.

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Accidential exposure to even a low power laser beam can lead to permanent damage to the eyes and possible loss of sight. The actual damage caused depends upon the laser wavelength.

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In Europe, general laser safety is addressed by EN 60825. The specification and selection of protective eyewear is covered by EN 207 for full protection or EN 208 for alignment protection filters.

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Laser Safety
Filters

Calculating Eyewear Scale

Frequently Asked Questions

Special optical filters are used to safely protect the eyes of those working in the viscinity of the laser. Different filters provide blocking against different powers, wavelengths and laser operating modes. In blocking the laser, eyewear can often suffer with reduced transmission at non-laser wavelengths, although modern filter technologies minimise this effect.

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This page provides a guide on how to calculate the required scale numbers and protection ratings of laser safety eyewear in accordance with BS EN 207 for full protection filters and BS EN 208 for alignment protection eyewear.

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We have compiled a list of answers to frequently asked questions that you may find helpful.

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Glossary of Laser Safety Terms

Our glossary of terms helps you to navigate your way through the jargon used in laser safety.

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