3D Systems, Inc.
23
LASER SAFETY
The SLS system contains a 100-watt continuous-wave CO
2
laser . The laser itself is designated Class IV . Very brief exposure to a
direct—or specularly or diffusely reflected—laser beam can cause significant burns or eye damage. It can also be a fire hazard.
During normal operations of the SLS system, the laser beam path is wholly contained within the machine . This makes the entire
machine a Class I Laser System . That means the SLS system does not produce damaging emissions under normal operations .
Laser Safety Classifications
Class I and Class IV are designations established by the U . S . Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Food
and Drug Administration, Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH), and by IEC 60825 (the International Electrotechnical
Commission’s
Radiation Safety of Laser Products, Equipment Classification Requirements, and User’s Guide
) . The Class I and Class
IV laser designations also comply with DIN VDE 0837/02.86+A1/07.90. You can read more about laser safety and classifications in
ANSI Z136 .1-1993 (the American National Standards Institute standard for the safe use of lasers) .
Laser Safety Labels on the SLS system
The SLS system has the two types of laser safety labels below. Laser safety label locations on the SLS system are shown in the figures
that follow the table:
LASER SAFETY LABEL
WHAT IT MEANS
LASER RADIATION HAZARD
Invisible laser radiation is accessible in the vicinity of this sign or behind the
access panel . Direct and scattered radiation can cause severe burns and
eye injury, or start a fire. Access panels are for service only and should only
be opened by certified service personnel.
DEFEATABLY INTERLOCKED PROTECTIVE HOUSING
If you defeat the SLS system laser safety interlocks, then open this housing
(panel or door), you can be exposed to hazardous direct and scattered
Class 4 invisible laser radiation which can cause severe burns and eye
injury, or start a fire.
LASER CERTIFICATION/IDENTIFICATION
Identifies laser system Class and shows CDRH Statement of Compliance.