In the world of laser technology, user safety is an absolutely key issue. In particular, when we are talking about laser equipment used for cutting, in which inside the housing there is often a powerful Class 4 laser. For the end user and operator, the safest category is the so-called Class 1 laser. But what does this actually mean? How do you know if a piece of equipment really meets Class 1 requirements?
Here are four key questions to ask before buying a laser machine if you want maximum safety in your work.
Table of contect
1. Does the device have an EU declaration of conformity?
Any machine that is sold in the European Union must comply with the relevant safety directives and standards. The manufacturer or distributor should provide an EC/EU declaration of conformity, confirming compliance with requirements such as:
- Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC,
- Low Voltage Directive (LVD),
- Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) directive,
- EN 60825 standard for the safety of laser equipment.
The absence of such a document is a wake-up call – without it, we can’t be sure that the machine meets EU safety standards, including those for Class 1.
2. Does the Class 1 laser prevent access to laser radiation?
According to the definition, a Class 1 laser must not expose the user to dangerous levels of laser radiation at any time – including during maintenance. If there is a very powerful laser inside (e.g., Class 4), the entire structure of the device must be designed so that radiation does not escape.
This means:
- a completely enclosed cutting zone,
- no need to open the housing for daily operation,
- appropriate interlocks at opening panels.
If you are exposed to the laser beam during standard use or routine maintenance – this is not a Class 1 device.
3. Does the security system include double security (interlocks)?
In the case of laser devices, door and panel protections must be dual-channel. What does this mean?
- Interlocks are systems of sensors and switches that disable the laser if the door is opened.
- Single-channel protection (e.g., just one simple sensor in the door) is not enough – if that one component fails, the laser can still operate with the door open.
- A true Class 1 device should have two independent channels of protection that will shut down radiation emissions in the event of any threat.
4. Does the device have proper warning markings?
Although the user from the outside is dealing with a Class 1 laser, inside the housing there is usually a Class 4 laser – with very high power. This means that in the event of a major malfunction, removal of guards or deactivation of safety features, the operator may be exposed to dangerous radiation.
Therefore, the device should be clearly marked:
- laser radiation warning stickers,
- Laser class information,
- instructions for safe operation and service.
The absence of such markings may indicate the manufacturer’s negligence and lack of compliance with standards.
Why is this important?
By choosing a Class 1 laser, you get the assurance that the device is safe even for untrained operators. This means less health and safety paperwork, less risk of human error, and no need for personal protective equipment (such as safety goggles or face shields).
But only if the device actually meets all the criteria of Class 1, and not just carries that marketing label.
How to check class 1 in practice?
If you are buying a device from a reputable supplier – ask for:
- declaration of conformity with EU standards,
- security system design,
- details of radiation leakage tests,
- the possibility of an audit or on-site test.
A good starting point is to use the offerings of companies that specialize in laser systems and work safety, such as distributors Precitec or manufacturers of integrated Class 1 systems like EVOSYS.
