THORLABS MCLS2-CUSTOM User Manual page 10

MCLS2-CUSTOM 4-Channel Laser/SLD Source
Laser Safety
This device can only be returned when packed into the complete original packaging, including all packing inserts.
If necessary, ask for a replacement package.
Per 21 C.F.R. §1040.10 and IEC 60825-1:2014+A11:2021, the MCLS2-CUSTOM series of lasers are rated in the 3B
or 4 Laser Safety Class based on the laser configuration.
According to Laser Institute of America: "A Class 3B laser is hazardous if the eye is exposed directly, but diffuse
reflection such as from paper or other matte surfaces are not harmful. Continuous lasers in the wavelength range
from 315 nm to far infrared are limited to 0.5 W. For pulsed lasers between 400 and 700 nm, the limit is 30 mJ.
Other limits apply to other wavelengths and to ultra-short, pulsed lasers. Protective eyewear is typically required
where direct viewing of a class 3B laser beam may occur. Class-3B lasers must be equipped with a key switch and
a safety interlock."
Class 4 lasers available in the MCLS2-CUSTOM may cause damage to the skin, and to the eye, even from the
viewing of diffuse reflections. These hazards may also apply to indirect or non-specular reflections of the beam,
even from apparently matte surfaces. Great care must be taken when handling these lasers. They also represent
a fire risk because they may ignite combustible material.
Safe practices and proper usage of safety equipment should be taken into consideration when operating class 4
lasers. The eye is susceptible to injury, even from very low levels of laser light. Laser emission in the visible and
near infrared spectral ranges have the greatest potential for retinal injury, as the cornea and lens are transparent
to those wavelengths, and the lens can focus the laser energy onto the retina.
According to the revised ANSI Z136.1 Safe Use of Lasers, laser area warning signs should be posted around Class
3 laser areas and are required to be posted around all Class 3B and 4 laser areas. NOTICE signs are required for
Class 3B and Class 4 lasers during maintenance, servicing, and similar situations.
Safe practices and proper usage of safety equipment should be taken into consideration when operating lasers.
Laser emission in the visible and near infrared spectral ranges has the greatest potential for retinal injury, as the
cornea and lens are transparent to those wavelengths, and the lens can focus the laser energy onto the retina.
Common laser safety precautions include:
•
Follow all safety precautions in the operator's manual.
•
Never aim the laser at a person's eyes, skin, or clothes.
•
Always use proper laser safety eyewear. Because the MCLS2-CUSTOM is a configurable laser/SLD source,
appropriate levels of attenuation depend on the details of the configuration being used. See the Resources
section of this chapter for sources of laser safety information. The necessary information regarding power
and wavelength can be found on the laser safety labels.
•
Avoid wearing watches, jewelry, or other objects that may reflect or scatter the laser beam.
•
Wear clothing to cover skin that might be inadvertently exposed to the beam.
•
Keep the laser beam paths above or below eye level for both sitting and standing positions.
•
Ensure that individuals do not look directly into a laser beam.
•
Eliminate all unnecessary reflective surfaces from the vicinity of the laser beam path.
•
Ensure that all individuals who operate Class 4 lasers are trained in laser safety and authorized to operate
a laser. Do not leave a running laser unattended if there is a chance that an unauthorized user may
attempt to operate the laser. A key switch should be used if untrained persons may gain access to the
laser. A warning light or buzzer should be used to indicate when the laser is operating.
Rev. B, May 17, 2024
Chapter 2: Safety
Page 7