Measurement and analysis of laser radiation for regulatory purposes

Abstract

The Federal Product Standard classifies laser products according to the hazard that may be associated with the level of laser radiation that is accessible during operation. Determination of the level of laser radiation present within a laser product or as a result of a product malfunction may also determine the applicability of other requirements such as labeling, scan failure safeguards, and safety interlocks. The standard also specifies the test conditions and measurement parameters to be used for classifying laser products. They include the radiometric quantities: radiant power, radiant energy, irradiance, radiant exposure, radiance and integrated radiance. Since the class limits are dependent on emission duration, the temporal characteristics must also be considered. The standard also specifies the measurement aperture, solid angle of acceptance, and collimating optics to be used. Actual physical measurements are not required by the standard. Alternative analytical methods which yield equivalent results are allowed and sometimes preferable.The Federal Product Standard classifies laser products according to the hazard that may be associated with the level of laser radiation that is accessible during operation. Determination of the level of laser radiation present within a laser product or as a result of a product malfunction may also determine the applicability of other requirements such as labeling, scan failure safeguards, and safety interlocks. The standard also specifies the test conditions and measurement parameters to be used for classifying laser products. They include the radiometric quantities: radiant power, radiant energy, irradiance, radiant exposure, radiance and integrated radiance. Since the class limits are dependent on emission duration, the temporal characteristics must also be considered. The standard also specifies the measurement aperture, solid angle of acceptance, and collimating optics to be used. Actual physical measurements are not required by the standard. Alternative analytical methods which yield equivalent resul...