Safety information — laser class 4

This English version is a translation provided for information only. In the event of any discrepancy, the German version at beamlux.de/laser-sicherheit shall prevail.

Laser Eraser d.o.o.
Prvog krajiškog korpusa 16
78220 Laktaši, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Email: kontakt@beamlux.de
Web: beamlux.de
Responsible: Lee Bruns and Oliver Mandic
BEAMLUX© is a brand of Laser Eraser d.o.o.

1. Classification and hazards

Depending on the version, BEAMLUX laser systems can produce Class 4 laser radiation. In the event of direct or specularly reflected radiation, Class 4 lasers can cause serious eye and skin injuries. Diffuse reflections can also be dangerous, depending on the application. In addition, fire and explosion hazards can arise. Laser processing can also produce hazardous fumes, dusts or particles.

2. Operation only with suitable protective measures

A Class 4 laser system may only be operated as intended and in compliance with the operating, safety and manufacturer’s documentation supplied with it. Before commissioning, an application-specific risk assessment must be carried out and a suitable laser-controlled area must be defined.

The laser-controlled area must be secured against inadvertent access by unauthorised or untrained persons. The necessary warning signs, interlocks, emergency stop / beam interruption devices and other protective measures must be implemented in accordance with the particular system and the risk assessment.

3. Laser safety officer (LSB)

When operating Class 3R, 3B or 4 laser systems, the employer is in principle required under the German OStrV to appoint a laser safety officer, provided that the statutory conditions for this are met. The LSB supports the employer in particular with the risk assessment, the selection and implementation of protective measures and the monitoring of safe operation.

The appointment, duties, powers and responsibilities of the LSB must be set out in writing in accordance with the statutory requirements and the particular workplace.

4. Personal protective equipment

Laser safety goggles may only be used if they are suitable for the specific laser wavelength or the relevant wavelength range and for the expected power/exposure, and if they provide the required protective effect. Ordinary safety goggles or welding goggles are not an adequate substitute.

Depending on the application, suitable protective clothing, gloves, respiratory protection or further personal protective equipment may also be required. The selection is made on the basis of the risk assessment.

5. Fire, explosion and process hazards

With laser class 4 in particular, it must be checked whether processed materials, dust, fumes, cleaning residues or other substances are flammable or potentially explosive. Combustible materials must be kept away from the laser-controlled area, or the necessary protective measures must be defined.

For laser cleaning applications, suitable extraction or process extraction must be provided to suit the material being processed and the emissions produced. The required filter and extraction technology must be selected to suit the application.

6. Responsibility of the operator

The operator or employer is responsible for the safe operation of the laser system at the respective place of use. This includes, in particular, the risk assessment, instruction, access control, signage, checking of the protective measures and — where necessary — the appointment of a laser safety officer.

The information in this document does not replace the system-related and workplace-related risk assessment, the operating manual, technical documentation or official requirements or requirements under occupational health and safety law.

7. Technical basis

These safety instructions are guided in particular by the requirements of the German Arbeitsschutzverordnung zu künstlicher optischer Strahlung (OStrV), the Technical Rules TROS Laserstrahlung and the relevant DGUV information. In each case, the legal and technical requirements in force at the time and at the place of use are decisive.

Last updated: 17 August 2026