Overview

When using a laser it is important to understand what class of laser is being used. All laser equipment should be classified in accordance with AS/NZS IEC 60825.1:2014 or an equivalent. In this system, lasers are categorised by a hazard classification system which is based on their ability to cause injury. Laser classification is important as it gives guidance on what controls need to be put in place to ensure safe operation of laser equipment (Barat, 2022).

Class 1 Lasers

Under normal conditions of operation, Class 1 lasers are generally not hazardous either because they have a low emission or because the beam is completely enclosed within a machine (Worksafe WA, 2024). If a Class 1 laser is modified so that its beam is no longer completely enclosed within a machine, this significantly increases the risk of harm. Class 1 lasers can hide a more powerful laser such as a Class 3 laser within the enclosed system. Therefore, it is important to not let the 'Class 1' categorisation provide a false sense of security. 

Class 1M Lasers

Class 1M lasers can be dangerous if the light is viewed with optical lenses such as magnifying glasses and binoculars (ARPANSA). The light of a Class 1M laser is slightly divergent and this reduces the intensity of the light with increased distance from the emission point. A magnifying system may effectively converge the light and increase its hazard potential.

Class 1C Lasers

Class 1C lasers are often used in medical and cosmetic settings and the laser is only applied when the applicator is in contact with the skin (Standards Australia, 2014). Class 1C lasers may emit radiation that exceeds a typical class 1 laser however due to the engineering control that only allows the laser to function under controlled circumstances it remains in the Class 1C classification. If engineering controls fail or are bypassed during maintenance then this may introduce a risk of harm. 

Class 2 Lasers

Class 2 lasers are more powerful than Class 1 lasers, however are usually not hazardous due to the eyes' natural response of blinking/looking away upon exposure (Worksafe WA, 2024). An example of a Class 2 laser is a barcode scanner. Class 2 lasers may be hazardous if a person directly stares into the beam (Standards Australia, 2022). Drugs and alcohol may also inhibit the eyes natural aversion response (Standards Australia, 2022). Class 2 laser exposure may cause dazzle, distraction and after images which may be a hazard in itself (Standards Australia, 2022).

Class 2M Lasers

Class 2M lasers may be hazardous if the beam is viewed directly with magnifying optical lens systems (ARPANSA). They may also be hazardous with intentional staring into the beam (Standards Australia, 2022).

Class 3R Lasers

Class 3R lasers produce light that is hazardous when the beam is viewed directly, however may also be hazardous when viewed from reflective surfaces (Worksafe WA, 2024). There is a low risk of eye injury if the exposure time is short whilst there is no risk of skin injury (ARPANSA). 

Class 3B Lasers

Class 3B lasers are powerful enough to cause damage with any direct beam exposure (Standards Australia, 2022). Damage may occur before the human blink and aversion response (Standards Australia, 2022). Class 3B lasers may also cause skin burns and also can cause harm from specular reflections. According to the Model WHS laws, Class 3B lasers are not to be used in the construction industry. Organisations using Class 3B lasers should have a laser safety officer (Standards Australia, 2022).

Class 4 Lasers

Class 4 lasers are hazardous to both the eye and skin not only under direct viewing conditions but also secondary to specular and diffuse reflections (Standards Australia, 2022). As per Model WHS law, Class 4 lasers are not approved for use in the construction industry. Class 4 lasers are also a fire hazard. (Worksafe WA, 2024). Organisations using Class 4 lasers should have a laser safety officer (Standards Australia, 2022).

References

ARPANSA. "Lasers." Retrieved 22/08/2026, from https://www.arpansa.gov.au/understanding-radiation/what-is-radiation/non-ionising-radiation/laser.

Barat, K. (2022). Laser safety : practical knowledge and solutions (Second edition. ed.). IOP Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1088/978-0-7503-5504-9

Safework Australia. (2025). Model WHS Regulations.  Retrieved from https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/doc/model-whs-regulations

Standards Australia. (2022). Safety of Laser Products. In Part 14: A user's guide. Standards Australia.

Worksafe WA. (2024). Laser Hazards. Retrieved 22/08/2026 from https://www.worksafe.wa.gov.au/laser-hazards