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Frequently Asked Questions About Lasers What is a laser?Laser stands for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. One basic type of laser consists of a sealed tube, containing a pair of mirrors, and a laser medium that is excited by some form of energy to produce visible light, or invisible ultraviolet or infrared radiation. There are many different types of lasers and each uses a different type of laser medium. Common laser media include gases such as argon or a helium and neon mixture, solid crystals such as ruby, and liquid dyes or chemicals. When energy is applied to the laser medium, it becomes excited and releases energy as particles of light (photons). A pair of mirrors at either end of the sealed tube either reflects or transmits the light (see illustration below) in the form of a concentrated stream called a laser beam. Each laser medium produces a beam of a unique wavelength and color. Laser
What are lasers used for?Lasers are used for a variety of purposes including pointing out objects during a presentation, aligning materials at construction sites and in the home, and by doctors for cosmetic and surgical procedures. Many items you encounter on a daily basis use lasers, including CD and DVD players; bar code scanners; dental drills; laser-guided tools, such as levels; and laser pointers. Why are lasers uniquely hazardous? Two characteristics of laser light contribute to the hazard:
What do you mean by laser “radiation?” Does it go through the body or cause cancer?Some lasers emit radiation in the form of light. Others emit radiation that is invisible to the eye, such as ultraviolet or infrared radiation. In general, laser radiation is not in itself harmful, and behaves much like ordinary light in its interaction with the body. Laser radiation should not be confused with radio waves, microwaves, or the ionizing x-rays or radiation from radioactive substances such as radium. Are all lasers legal for consumer use?No. Some lasers are strictly for use by medical, industrial, or entertainment professionals and should only be used by a person with appropriate training and licenses. The FDA requires labels on most laser products that contain a warning about the laser radiation and other hazards, and a statement certifying that the laser complies with FDA safety regulations. The label must also state the power output and the hazard class of the product. Consumer laser products are generally in classes I, II, and IIIa, while lasers for professional use may be in classes IIIb and IV. What do the different classifications of lasers mean?The FDA recognizes four major hazard classes (I to IV), including two subclasses (IIIa and IIIb), of lasers--ranging from those that pose no known hazard to those that pose serious danger if used improperly. The higher the class, the more powerful the laser is.
What are laser pointers?Laser pointers are tools used for pointing out objects or locations, and are defined as "surveying, leveling, and alignment laser products" in an FDA regulation. They are commonly used during lectures and astronomy presentations, and laser pointers incorporated into spirit levels and hand tools are also very popular. In recent years laser pointers have become readily available, and are commonly sold in hardware, pet, hobby, and office supply stores. Are laser pointers safe?When used properly lasers pointers are safe. Laser pointers are misused when they are directed at the eyes or treated as toys. The light energy from a laser pointer aimed into the eye can be more damaging than looking directly into the sun. And the startling effect of a bright beam of light can cause serious accidents when aimed at someone driving a car or operating other machinery. The FDA is concerned about the increased availability of a variety of laser products that may be illegal or unsafe. Green laser pointers have the agency particularly concerned. While there are legitimate uses for green pointers, they may be altered to become more powerful and unsafe if not used responsibly. What is the proper use of a laser pointer?Remember, laser pointers are not toys and they should only be used by an adult, or with adult supervision.
What is FDA’s role in regulating lasers?The FDA regulates both medical and non-medical lasers. The FDA may inspect manufacturers of laser products and require the recall of products that don't comply with federal standards or that have radiation safety defects. The agency also may test laser products and inspect displays of laser light shows to ensure the public is protected. Producers of laser light shows are required to tell the FDA where they are planning a show so that the agency can inspect it if possible and take action if required. FDA is currently working to identify manufacturers of overpowered green laser pointers and other illegal lasers, and is taking action to prevent these unsafe products from being sold in the United States. Where can I get more information?
If you have questions about a laser product you are considering purchasing or offering for sale on the Internet, contact the FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health at (240) 276-0326. To report Web sites that you suspect are illegally selling laser products, follow the instructions at www.fda.gov/oc/buyonline/buyonlineform.htm Updated January 26, 2006 |
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