Yes, Class 1 lasers are considered safe under all reasonably foreseeable conditions of use. This means that the laser's design ensures that the Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE) cannot be exceeded during normal operation.
In essence, a Class 1 laser is inherently safe and does not pose a risk to the eyes or skin under typical usage scenarios. This safety is achieved through various design features, such as:
- Low Power Output: The laser's power output is so low that it cannot cause harm, even with prolonged direct viewing.
- Enclosure Protection: The laser is often contained within a protective enclosure that prevents access to hazardous levels of laser radiation. This is why many CD and DVD players are classified as Class 1 lasers. You can't be exposed to the laser radiation inside them unless you dismantle the device.
Therefore, users can operate Class 1 lasers without requiring safety eyewear or other protective measures.
