Laser Safety
The Zetalase
™
The word laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. In this
document, the word laser will be limited to electromagnetic radiation-emitting devices using light
amplification by stimulated emission of radiation at wavelengths from 180 nanometers to 1 millimeter.
The electromagnetic spectrum includes energy ranging from gamma rays to electricity. Figure 1
illustrates the total electromagnetic spectrum and wavelengths of the various regions.
is a Class 1 laser marking system designed, developed, and manufactured in
accordance with EC directives, DIN EN 60825-1, ANSI Z136.1, and Complies with FDA Performance
Standards for Laser Products.
Class I laser systems are completely safe for operators to use under normal working conditions.
However, it may be possible during machine maintenance or physical modification to be exposed to
direct and/or scattered laser radiation. The following section describes laser basics and potential
safety hazards they may produce in these unlikely circumstances.
L A S E R S F O R M A R K I N G
Figure 1. Electromagnetic Spectrum
The primary wavelengths for lasers include the ultraviolet, visible and infrared regions of the
spectrum. Ultraviolet radiation for lasers consists of wavelengths between 180 and 400 nanometers
(nm). The visible region consists of radiation with wavelengths between 400 and 700 nm. This is the
portion we call visible light. The infrared region of the spectrum consists of radiation with
wavelengths between 700 nm and 1 mm.
The color or wavelength of light being emitted depends on the type of lasing material being used.
For example, if a Neodymium:Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd:YAG) crystal is used as the lasing
material, light with a wavelength of 1064 nm will be emitted. Table 1 illustrates various types of
material currently used for lasing and the wavelengths that are emitted by that type of laser. Note
that certain materials and gases are capable of emitting more than one wavelength. The wavelength
of the light emitted in this case is dependent on the optical configuration of the laser.
While not strictly adopted by OSHA, the ANSI standard, Z136.1-2000, “Safe Use of Lasers”, is
considered an appropriate guideline for ensuring a safe environment where lasers are present. The
ANSI standard requires that companies using Class IV lasers have a designated Laser Safety Officer
(LSO). The LSO is one who has authority to monitor and enforce the control of laser hazards.
Typically the Industrial Hygiene department or the company Safety Specialist oversees the
implementation of laser safety.
Zetalase
™
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General Manual SE 1
