Beyond class 4, laser safety controls for very high-power lasers

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When discussing controls for your typical Class 4 laser, one can usually rely on commercially available products to fill the need. However, in the realm of very high-output lasers (Class 5?) things get complicated. This is especially true with today’s graphical user interface (GUI) controlled lasers. GUIs can be complicated and designed without safety in mind. Component failure is a very real thing, especially in the world of research and development (R&D). A risk assessment (RA) or failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) is a definite requirement now.Neither the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z136.1-2014 nor ANSI Z136.8-2012 offer real guidance for very high-output lasers, except for calling out the use of a Danger sign. With the price per watt/Joule decreasing at a rapid pace, high average power and high intensity lasers are fast becoming common place. This paper will discuss these lasers that are truly dangerous to life and health and the controls that are needed to operate them safety.When discussing controls for your typical Class 4 laser, one can usually rely on commercially available products to fill the need. However, in the realm of very high-output lasers (Class 5?) things get complicated. This is especially true with today’s graphical user interface (GUI) controlled lasers. GUIs can be complicated and designed without safety in mind. Component failure is a very real thing, especially in the world of research and development (R&D). A risk assessment (RA) or failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) is a definite requirement now.Neither the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Z136.1-2014 nor ANSI Z136.8-2012 offer real guidance for very high-output lasers, except for calling out the use of a Danger sign. With the price per watt/Joule decreasing at a rapid pace, high average power and high intensity lasers are fast becoming common place. This paper will discuss these lasers that are truly dangerous to life and health and the controls that are needed to operate them safety.