The new laser classification scheme should bring significant benefits to laser product manufacturers. In particular, many high divergence 3B lasers now become 1M or 2M, whilst the dumping of 3A brings to an end a major source of irritation between the European and American product classification schemes.

Laser working codes are based primarily on laser classification. However, with the new classification scheme this is not as easy as it may appear. For example, a distinction must be made between the requirements for control of viewing aids for 1M and 2M lasers emitting high divergence beams and the same Classes of lasers emitting collimated beams. In the former case, control applies only to use of microscopes and eye loupes close to the laser source, whereas in the latter case the control applies to binoculars and telescopes and must be enforced over extended viewing distances.

A distinction must also be made within Class 3R lasers (where direct ocular exposure can exceed the applicable MPE by up to 5 times) between visible beam-emitting and invisible beam-emitting lasers. The risk associated with visible 3R is regarded as very low but the risk of injury from an invisible-beam Class 3R laser is considered sufficiently high that appointment of a Laser Safety Officer (LSO) is recommended. Furthermore, whereas a visible 3R is identical in specification to the USA's IIIa (a Class restricted to visible lasers), an invisible-beam 3R laser must be fitted with an emission warning light.

Users should always remember that the appropriateness of control measures must be consistent with the risk assessment for laser use it will be interesting to see how helpful the new classification scheme, with its breathtaking 11 distinct classes and sub-classes of laser, will prove to be.

Pro Laser can readily provide a laser working code for your company tailored to your specific laser use.