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.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; laser-guided tools, such as levels; Two characteristics of laser light contribute to the hazard: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.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.The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes four major hazard classes (I to IV) of lasers, including three subclasses (IIa, IIIa, and IIIb). The higher the class, the more powerful the laser and the potential to pose serious danger if used improperly. Wedding Gown Rental Phoenix AzThe labeling for Classes II–IV must include a warning symbol that states the class and the output power of the product. Puppies For Sale In DcApproximate IEC equivalent classes are included for products labeled under the classification system of the International Electrotechnical Commission.Class FDAClass IECLaser Product HazardProduct ExamplesI1, 1MConsidered non-hazardous. Adjustable Curtain Rod Spotlight

Hazard increases if viewed with optical aids, including magnifiers, binoculars, or telescopes.laser printersCD playersDVD playersIIa, II2, 2MHazard increases when viewed directly for long periods of time. Hazard increases if viewed with optical aids.bar code scannersIIIa3RDepending on power and beam area, can be momentarily hazardous when directly viewed or when staring directly at the beam with an unaided eye. Risk of injury increases when viewed with optical aids.laser pointersIIIb3BImmediate skin hazard from direct beam and immediate eye hazard when viewed directly.laser light show projectorsindustrial lasersresearch lasersIV4Immediate skin hazard and eye hazard from exposure to either the direct or reflected beam; may also present a fire hazard.laser light show projectorsindustrial lasersresearch laserslasers used to perform LASIK eye surgeryLaser 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.When used properly lasers pointers pose minimal risk if they meet laser power limits. 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. In addition, the startling effect of a bright beam of light aimed at someone driving a car or operating other machinery can cause serious accidents.The FDA is concerned about the increased availability of a variety of laser products that may be used unsafely. Green, blue and violet laser pointers have the agency particularly concerned. While there are legitimate uses for these laser pointers, they may be altered to become more powerful and unsafe if not used responsibly.No.

Never assume the color brightness of a laser beam indicates its power.  In lighted conditions (indoors or outdoors), a beam from a powerful laser can appear to be the same brightness or dimmer than the beam of a less powerful laser. For example in the photo below, the green laser beam appears much brighter than the red and far brighter than the blue.  These are actually equally powered lasers and all three present the same eye hazard from looking into the beam. If you see a bright blue or violet laser beam with brightness similar to a green laser, you can safely assume that the blue/violet laser light is far more powerful and looking directly into the beam will cause severe and immediate eye damage.As a rule, you should never look directly into any laser beam.Remember, laser pointers are not toys and they should only be used by an adult, or with adult supervision.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.