P3D Laser Issues

[Bob_Maxey@xxxxxxxxxxxx]

>>I wouldn't stare into a 5mW laser, but also note that one of the common
>>safety classes of lasers is "< 5 mW", which could include devices which
are
>>*much* less than 5 mW. I would think as a first approximation that a good
>>approach would be to follow the safety recommendations for the particular
>>device in question. Also, I believe the main mechanism for harm is
heating
>>effects of the tissue of the retina - so while damage might be
cumulative,
>>it would not be a linear function of lifetime (duration x intensity)
exposure.
>>The peripheral vision appears to be much less prone to damage from bright
>>light than the foveal (central) vision, so avoiding looking directly at
the
>>source could help.



The CDRH cautions and warns against ALL Lasers regardless of their output
power. The CDRH is under the FDA. Be warned that there are also a number of
Ultra Bright LEDS that when focused, also pose a risk. Regardless, just be
carefull and NEVER look at output from a Laser. This also applies to
reflected laser energy.

RM



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