Safety aspects of diode lasers

Abstract

Currently thought of as small, low power devices working in the near infrared spectrum, laser diodes are assumed not to present any great hazard to the eye. The circumstances under which typical currently available devices might be met in condition that would require hazard analysis are examined as are the effects that diode radiation can produce. Laser diodes will not remain benign; soon the CW power will exceed 1 watt and already experimental diodes operate in the short wavelength part of the spectrum. Pulsed systems have also been constructed. The high efficiency and small size of the diode lasers will see their rapid application in surprising places and potentially hazardous criminal scenarios may easily be envisaged.Undoubtedly the type of laser that will make the biggest impact upon the world at large in the next few years will be the diode laser. Because of its many useful properties, as a type it will outnumber other kinds of laser, if it does not do so already, and will play a direct role in the life of millions all over the world. Already, many people have diode lasers in their homes without being aware of the fact. When considering the safety problems that diode lasers pose, it will be their ubiquity that will be the most important factor in risk assessment. It is therefore worth examining what factors are leading to the dissemination of diode lasers, what kind of hazard they pose and what the risks are likely to be.Currently thought of as small, low power devices working in the near infrared spectrum, laser diodes are assumed not to present any great hazard to the eye. The circumstances under which typical currently available devices might be met in condition that would require hazard analysis are examined as are the effects that diode radiation can produce. Laser diodes will not remain benign; soon the CW power will exceed 1 watt and already experimental diodes operate in the short wavelength part of the spectrum. Pulsed systems have also been constructed. The high efficiency and small size of the diode lasers will see their rapid application in surprising places and potentially hazardous criminal scenarios may easily be envisaged.Undoubtedly the type of laser that will make the biggest impact upon the world at large in the next few years will be the diode laser. Because of its many useful properties, as a type it will outnumber other kinds of laser, if it does not do so already, and will play a direct role in the ...