Testing and assessment of laser safety eyewear - The European regulatory framework

Abstract

In Europe, two concepts shall be considered for the testing and assessment of laser eyewear. Essential requirements for product safety are specified in the directives based on the New Approach. E.g., any kind of laser eyewear has to meet the requirements of the PPE-Directive. Common to all these directives is that they reference to European harmonized standards, e.g. to EN 207 for the product testing of laser protection filters and frames. Basically, any product does satisfy the essential requirements laid down in any of the product directives if it complies with the specifications as written in the listed standards.The use of laser safety eyewear is defined in the regulatory framework for occupational safety. In 2006, the European Commission published the Directive for protection and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to risks arising from artificial optical radiation. Any employer has to meet the requirements of this directive.Within a given time, all European directives must be transposed to national laws in the European member states.This presentation intends to provide more insights to these two concepts - as seen by a technician who is working for a Notified Body in Europe.In Europe, two concepts shall be considered for the testing and assessment of laser eyewear. Essential requirements for product safety are specified in the directives based on the New Approach. E.g., any kind of laser eyewear has to meet the requirements of the PPE-Directive. Common to all these directives is that they reference to European harmonized standards, e.g. to EN 207 for the product testing of laser protection filters and frames. Basically, any product does satisfy the essential requirements laid down in any of the product directives if it complies with the specifications as written in the listed standards.The use of laser safety eyewear is defined in the regulatory framework for occupational safety. In 2006, the European Commission published the Directive for protection and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to risks arising from artificial optical radiation. Any employer has to meet the requirements of this directive.Within a given time, all European directives must be trans...