Laser Hazard Classifications

TB 430133

lens opacities (cataracts) or inflammation of the eye. UV radiation can also cause pho-

tokeratitis, which feels like a sunburn to the cornea for a period of time (TB MED 524,

paragraphs 23.a and 23.c; Field Manual (FM) 850, paragraph 1.c).

(2) Visible Light (400 700 nm) and NearInfrared (IRA) Radiation (700

1400 nm). The primary hazard from this wavelength range is damage to the retina of

the eye. Depending on the level of the exposure, the damage may be temporary or per-

manent. (TB MED 524, paragraph 23.a and 23.b; Occupational Health, The Soldier

and the Industrial Base).

(3) FarInfrared Radiation (1,400 nm 1 mm). Absorption of radiation in this

frequency range will result in the production of heat with resultant effects on both the

cornea and the lens of the eye ranging from welders flash and photokeratitis, to thermal

burns to all layers of the cornea (TB MED 524, paragraph 23.a and 23.d; Occupation-

al Health, The Soldier and the Industrial Base, 1993).

b. Laser Hazard Classifications. The classification of lasers is dependent

mainly on the following factors: wavelength(s), output power/energy, whether the laser

is continuous wave (CW) or pulsed, and the pulse characteristics. Class 1 lasers are

those devices not capable of emitting hazardous laser radiation under any operating or

viewing condition, and are therefore exempt from any controls. Classes 2, 2a, 3a, 3b,

and 4 lasers are increasingly more hazardous and require SOP(s). Class 3b and 4 la-

sers require special precautions to ensure safe use. For a more technical description of

the hazard classifications, consult ANSI Z136.11993 paragraph 3 (for user); Title 21

Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 1040.10 (b)5. through 1040.10 (b)11. (for

manufacturer)

c. Laser Program Guidelines. The following general guidelines are offered to

assist commanders in setting up and maintaining a complete laser and high intensity

optical radiation protection program. Incorporate these guidelines into your local radi-

ation protection programs and procedures as applicable:

(1) Maintain records and descriptions of all potentially hazardous lasers, mili-

tary exempt lasers and high intensity optical radiation sources (DoDI 6055.11, Enclo-

sure 5, paragraph 13; AR 405, paragraph 99.a.(2)(f); CECOM 38510 paragraph

6.d.(10)).

(2) Ensure that an SOP is prepared and is conspicuously posted in each facil-

ity using potentially hazardous sources. One SOP may cover multiple systems in the

same facility. Each SOP will list the procedures to be used to operate systems in a safe

manner and include operational procedures as well as procedures to use in a particular

room or on a laser range, as applicable (AR 405, paragraph 99 a.(2)(a); AR 4046,

paragraph 15. d.(2); CECOM 38510, paragraphs 6.f.(2) and 7.c and Mil Handbook

828).

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