Laser Classes - Laser Classification System
In the Uk, Lasers are classified for safety purposes based on their potential for causing injury to humans’ eyes and skin based on exposure time. When purchasing a cheap laser machine it's important to take into consideration the safety class of the laser.
Here at Focused Laser Systems, we take our machine safety and compliance very seriously. All of our machines are thoroughly assessed and tested here in the UK for compliance with the necessary standards. All laser systems are checked vigorously to ensure that our compliance assessments are carried out thoroughly and to the correct requirements.
All of our Lightblade co2 machines are classified as class 1 laser systems and are suitable for use in schools, colleges, and universities as specified by the UK Health and Safety Executive (class 4 laser systems must NOT be used in education)
Laser Safety Classes
Class 1 Lasers:
Safe, even for long-term intentional viewing. Safe for unaided eye exposure. Laser radiation of this class is harmless - even with prolonged radiation exposure.
The perfect laser engravers and cutters for schools, hospitals, and businesses. Providing you with peace of mind. To view a class 1 laser machine - check out our Lightblade collection of lasers.
Class 2 Lasers:
Considered safe for normal operation. Class 2 lasers' output power is below 1 milliwatt. All Class 2 lasers emit visible light only. A Class 2 laser is relatively weak.
It normally would not harm an eye unless a person deliberately stared into the beam. Laser protective eyewear is normally not necessary. A Class 2 laser is not a skin or materials burn hazard.
Class 3 Lasers:
There is only a small hazard potential for accidental exposure. A class 3 laser is generally low-powered. It normally would not harm eyes during a momentary exposure of less than 1/5 of a second to the laser light.
Do not deliberately look or stare into the laser beam. Laser protective eyewear is normally not necessary. A Class 3R laser is not a skin or materials burn hazard.
Class 4 Lasers:
Hazardous for eye exposure. They also can burn skin and materials, especially dark and/or lightweight materials at close range. They should be used with extreme care.
Class 4 visible-beam lasers are high-powered. A Class 4 laser can cause a significant eye injury if the beam enters the eye. Even staring at the diffuse reflection of a laser "dot" on a wall or other surface, may cause an eye injury within a few feet of the dot. Do not stare at the laser "dot" when it is close to you.
At Focused Laser Systems, if you're a school, hospital, business, or governmental organization, we would strongly recommend you source a laser system with a class safety of no less than 2. To provide you with peace of mind and most importantly protecting the safety of your employees and those operating the laser machine.
