Laser Pointer Advisory

A laser pointer contains a small diode laser that emits an intense beam of light. Most laser pointers contain low to moderate powered lasers that do not pose a serious risk of eye injury unless intentionally misused.

Direct viewing of the laser beam may cause temporary flashblindness, headaches, afterimages or glare. Besides the risk of injury from the beam, the outrage from being exposed or loss of concentration may promote other hazards, e.g., falls, driving accidents, etc.

The following safety considerations should be observed when using laser pointers:

• Never look directly into the laser beam
• Never point a laser at a person
• Do not aim the laser at a highly reflective surface
• Only use laser pointers that have
  • Laser Radiation labeling
  • Classification as Class 2 or 3a (see label)
  • wavelength between 630 and 680 nm
  • maximum output less than 5 mW

For more information about laser pointer safety, see Safety Recommendations for Laser Pointers. General laser safety information may be found in the Laser Safety Training Guide. For questions about laser pointers or any laser safety issue, contact Robin Izzo at rmizzo@princeton.edu or 258-6259.