Burns and other thermal effects are the predominant cause of laser radiation injury, either through direct contact or via accidental reflection. Some lasers are powerful enough that even a diffuse or scattered reflection can be hazardous to the eye.

Eye Hazards

• Acute: May cause corneal and/or retinal burns.
• Chronic: May cause cataracts and or eye injuries.
• Infrared and ultraviolet lasers are typically not visible to the naked eye, and may not activate the protective blink reflex response that would normally be sufficient to protect the user from visible light Class 2 lasers.
• Lasers in the visible to near infrared range (400 – 1400 nm) can penetrate the eyeball and may cause heating to the retina.
• Laser radiation <400 nm or >1400 nm are largely absorbed by the cornea and lens.

Skin Hazards

• Acute: May cause skin burns.
• Chronic: UV light may cause carcinogenesis.

Contact the Laser Safety Officer at safeheal@drexel.edu if you any questions or concerns about laser systems.