by Jennifer Marsh

Created on: February 22, 2011   Last Updated: April 16, 2012

Lasers are directional sources of electromagnetic energy. They are used in technology, gadgets and weaponry. Even the small laser device used for presentations in the office or pointers in the classroom has hazards associated with it. Lasers are technological advancements that make some jobs more efficient, but the electromagnetic energy is dangerous for the skin and the eye. Most laser devices have a warning label that provides users with information regarding the dangerous effects, but other devices don’t properly warn users. Even the smallest, weakest laser must be used with caution. Here are some dangers when working with lasers, so you can avoid serious damage  an individual’s eye or skin.

• Lasers and the Eye

Most lasers are not strong enough to permanently damage the eye, but lasers can cause eye damage, if you point it directly at a person’s eye. The energy harms the retina, which is the light-sensitive area of the eye. Even if eye damage from lasers is not permanent, it can still cause some uncomfortable effects after the laser is pointed away from the eye. The laser causes temporary blindness from the energy directed at the eye. Most people experience some kind of spots in the vision area. The spots are typically white, and they disappear after a few minutes. The glare remains for several minutes for people who have the laser beamed directly at the eye for more than a few seconds.

• Skin Damage

Lasers with at least one watt of power can cause skin burns. Most people associate skin burns with fire or heat. Energy in the form of lasers also contains heat, which leads to skin damage. The burns look the same and feel the same as a burn from fire. The area where the laser touched the skin remains red and irritated. The laser burn should be treated like other burns, but severely damaged skin must be treated by a medical professional to avoid permanent scarring.

• Safety Precautions when Using Lasers

Small laser pointers used in the classroom or in a meeting should never be pointed at individuals’ eyes. When working with stronger lasers, always use the recommended safety equipment. Safety equipment is typically goggles, a lab coat and gloves. Keep burn management medicine and other first aid equipment in the lab room when using a stronger laser that can cause skin irritation. Use with caution, lasers are a convenient tool in the classroom or in the office.

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