Equinox Systems VIXEN EQLA36 User Manual page 10

Equinox Vixen Laser
Class 3B Laser Lighting Effect User Safety Guide ProLight Concepts Limited
Important Warnings
Class 3B Lasers have the potential to harm eyesight if viewed directly in the face, and
in many instances this may be the case, even if viewed over longer distances of several
tens of metres. Therefore before using the laser product you should familiarise yourself
with its operation, and also the safety aspects that need to be considered.
Laser lighting effects are quite safe to watch if installed and used correctly, and being
aware of a few basic factors will help you to achieve this. This guide has been prepared to
help provide a basic backgrounder to the key safety aspects, and is based on current UK
health and safety guidance on the use of lasers for public displays.
Installation and Operation Notes
1. The laser should only be installed and operated by those that are aware of how
to operate laser, and what the various controls perform. The keyswitch provided
on the laser should help to prevent use by unintended people.
2. The laser should be mounted in a suitable and secure position in the venue, so
that once in position it is unlikely to be affected by unintended movement.
3. Prior to installation and operation of the laser, the paths of the beams and
effects should be considered, particularly with respect to how they will touch the
audience. If direct audience scanning is desired then the laser energy in the
effects needs to be considered to decide if the effects are safe for direct
viewing.
Introduction
Laser lighting products are used to create some of the most vivid and striking visual effects, and
are often noted for how they seem to produce solid shapes that cut through the air, and pick up
highly defined swirling smoke patterns. The light that is used to create these stunning effects is
different from normal light and therefore several precautions need to taken when using lasers to
ensure that the lighting effects are safe and enjoyable to view. The optical power output from the
kind of lasers used for lighting displays can be harmful if not properly setup or is misused. But
when used following the recommended health and safety guidelines, laser lighting effects no more
harmful than looking at any conventional lighting effect.
This guide has been put together to provide you with some background information about laser
safety, and guidance on the recommended health and safety requirements for using lasers in
public places. Although this guide covers the main points to consider when using laser effects,
users are advised to familiarise themselves with other guidance, particularly that issued by the
Health and Safety Executive, HS(G)95 The Radiation Safety Of Lasers Used For Display
Purposes, which is freely downloadable from the HSE website. Attending one of the laser safety
training courses, listed at the end of this guide, is also highly recommended.
Safety